Meet Dilana Ismailova

We recently connected with Dilana Ismailova and have shared our conversation below.

Dilana, so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.

Developing my confidence and self-esteem has been a rewarding journey, fueled by a mix of personal experiences and growth. I’ve always known that I excel at what I do, and that self-awareness has been crucial in building my confidence.

A pivotal moment came from my upbringing; my mom was a strong influence, teaching me the importance of resilience and independence. We were raised not to ask for help or show weakness, which instilled a sense of strength in me. Moving to LA challenged me, but it also expanded my self-boundaries. In a city filled with diverse voices and experiences, I learned to stand my ground and embrace my individuality.

Performing live has been another key element. I love the energy of a great crowd – there’s something magical about connecting with people through music. It reinforces the idea that music is a powerful message meant to be shared. Celebrating both big and small achievements along the way has also contributed to my self-esteem. It’s like saying thank you to the universe for every step forward.

Ultimately, I’ve learned that confidence is a continuous journey. Embracing my voice in the neoclassical metal genre has allowed me to grow into the artist I am today, ready to face whatever comes next.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

I’m currently focused on my artistic career as the frontwoman of my band, Snifters, where we dive deep into the world of neoclassical metal. Our music blends powerful vocals with intricate guitar work, creating a sound that resonates with fans of the genre. What excites me most about the journey is the opportunity to revive neoclassical metal and bring it back into the spotlight. It’s a genre that deserves recognition for it’s complexity and emotional depth.

One of the special aspects of my work is the storytelling woven into our music, We’re currently preparing to release an EP that features a four-piece medieval story, which allows us to explore themes of adventure and transformation through our songs. Our test release, “Creatures of the Night”, serves as a glimpse into this upcoming project, and I can’t wait for everyone to hear it!

In addition to our music, I’m passionate about building a community around our art. Connecting with fans and fellow musicians is incredibly fulfilling, and I aim to create an inclusive space where everyone feels welcome to share their love for metal.

Looking ahead, we have exciting collaborations lined up with friends form the guitar shred scene and plans for more shows. I’m eager to share this journey with our audience an inspire them to embrace their own creative paths.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Looking back on my journey, I’d say three qualities have really stood out: resilience, creativity, and strong communication skills. Resilience has been key for me in navigating the ups and downs of the music industry. Challenges are part of the game, but I’ve learned to stay determined and find my way through. For anyone starting out, see setbacks as chances to grow. Every bump on the road teaches you something valuable.

Creativity is another big one. It’s all about thinking outside the box and bringing fresh ideas to the table. That’s what makes you stand out and helps you express your true self. So, if you’re early in your journey, don’t be afraid to experiment and take risks. That’s where the magic happens.

And let’s not forget about communication. Whether you’re collaborating with bandmates or connecting with fans, strong communication is essential. It helps build relationships and get your artistic vision across. My advise? Practice being open and clear – it’ll help you create a solid support network.

In the end, developing these qualities takes time, but they’re essential for a fulfilling journey in creative field. Remember, practice makes perfect!

As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?

One book that has profoundly influenced my journey is “Rainbow in the Dark,” the autobiography of Ronnie James Dio. His story isn’t just inspiring; it’s a powerful reminder of what it means to stay true to your art in an ever-changing industry. Dio faced countless obstacles but never wavered in his dedication to his vision, and that resonates deeply with me as the leader of Snifters. His journey reinforces the idea that passion and integrity are essential in this game.

I’m also diving into “All You Need to Know About the Music Business” by Donald Passman. This book feels like a treasure map through the complexities of the industry. One of the standout lessons for me is the importance of mastering contracts and negotiations. As a band leader, this knowledge isn’t just helpful; it’s essential for safeguarding our vision and future. Knowing the ropes helps me steer Snifters in the right direction.

Then there’s “The Business of Concert Promotion and Touring” by Ray D. Waddell, a goldmine for anyone looking to put on a successful show. One key takeaway? Building strong relationships within the industry is vital. For me, those connections with promoters and venues are the lifeblood of making things happen.

In my past, I’ve also spent time with old folklore books, rich with poems and riddles. Those readings ignited my creativity and have been instrumental in crafting lyrics and ideas. I have a vivid imagination, and when I read, sing, or draw, I see the world unfold like a movie in my mind, adding depth to my artistic expression.

As I navigate my studies in the Music Business Program at Musicians Institute, I’m constantly soaking up knowledge that empowers me to lead with confidence. Each book fuels my passion and equips me with the tools to thrive in this dynamic landscape. With all these insights, I’m ready to take Snifters to new heights!

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Mathias Fau
Katie Lewellyn Photography
Kevin Eggert Photography

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