Concert pianist and Royal Conservatoire of Scotland senior teacher, ABRSM scholar and certified pedagogue

Find out more about Nikita

• When did you first develop a passion for music and your favorite instrument?

  I was just six when the piano pulled me in, and I knew right away it was a powerful medium for storytelling and emotion. Growing up in Russia, I immersed myself in a tradition where music held deep cultural weight, which shaped me and ignited my lifelong commitment. My early studies, first solo with orchestras and later at prestigious schools like the Purcell School and the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, gave me this profound connection to the piano as my voice in music.

• Is there a particular type of music or artist you listen to on a loop without it driving you crazy?

  Absolutely! I find myself often listening to greats like Rachmaninoff or jazz legends like Oscar Peterson or Bill Evans. Their music offers such richness that it constantly brings something fresh, no matter how many times you hear it.

• Explain the most difficult or riveting course you could give to a music student.

  One of the most challenging and rewarding courses I offer is a focused study on the art of interpretation. Through intense exploration of complex pieces, such as Liszt's Sonata in B Minor or Mussorgsky's Pictures at an Exhibition, we dive into how every detail-articulation, phrasing, and tempo-transforms the music's narrative. We explore technique in depth but aim to move beyond it to communicate the character and spirit within each composition. It's challenging yet incredibly rewarding for any serious pianist. Another great challenge is helping students prepare for distinctions in exams or competitions. We dig into technique, musicality, and performance skills, ensuring they're ready to play at their best. With consistent focus, I've seen my students grow faster than they ever thought possible.

• What do you think is the most complicated instrument to master and why?

  Each instrument presents unique challenges, but I'd argue the piano is particularly complex due to its wide range and polyphonic nature. Mastering it requires an ability to think multi-dimensionally, balancing independent voices, dynamics, and tones within one instrument. Pianists often act as conductors of their own mini-orchestra, which is thrilling but demands extensive technical and emotional investment to bring every nuance to life.

• What are your keys to success?

  Curiosity, resilience, and adaptability are my pillars. Curiosity drives my continuous learning, not just in music but in areas like history and literature, which deepen my interpretations. Resilience is crucial in a field where setbacks are part of the journey, and adaptability is essential in a music landscape that's constantly evolving. I also believe in connecting with audiences deeply-whether it's at a grand hall or a small community venue, making music accessible and engaging is key.

• Name three musicians you dream of meeting in your favorite bar in the early hours of the morning.

  Rachmaninov, Chopin, and Mussorgsky - imagine discussing both classical genius and improvisation skills in one night! Did you know that both Rachmaninov and Chopin improvised? Or Mussorgsky, whose charisma changed the landscape of Russian music! Each brings something irreplaceable to the piano world, blending technique and heart.

• Provide a valuable anecdote related to music or your days at music school.

  During my time at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, I played in a remote care home through Live Music Now Scotland. After the performance, an elderly woman told me it was the first time she had felt joy in years. This moment reinforced the transformative power of music and taught me that sharing music is just as meaningful as technical mastery. It was a reminder that every performance, big or small, has the potential to impact people profoundly.

• What are the little touches that make you a Superprof in music?

  My teaching is hands-on and tailored to each student, focusing on what they love and need most. I offer a balanced and supportive environment where students can take creative risks and grow faster than they expect. I strive to make each lesson engaging by tailoring it to individual goals, from technique to repertoire selection. My diverse performance experience across prestigious venues worldwide adds an inspiring perspective, allowing me to equip students with insights into what it takes to perform at a high level while also emphasizing the joy of the musical journey. Whether you're aiming for a Conservatoire spot, an exam distinction, or simply playing a favorite piece or a song, together we will achieve that goal! :-)