Lira Bekbolatova, celebrated as one of the “Successful Kazakhs Abroad” by the esteemed World Association of Kazakhs, stands out as a multifaceted artist and educator whose influence resonates across various fields. With two Master’s degrees in her portfolio, she is currently furthering her academic pursuits at the prestigious Tisch School of the Arts in New York, where she continues to refine her artistic vision and creative skills.

Lira has made significant strides in the realms of music, journalism, and cultural dialogue. As a highly accomplished pianist and composer, she captivates audiences with her instrumental prowess and innovative compositions. Her written work in journalism has garnered widespread acclaim, culminating in her receipt of the Grand-Prix at an international journalism competition. Additionally, she has been honored with personal accolades from celebrated maestro Ennio Morricone, reflecting her exceptional talent and dedication to her craft.

Her commitment to fostering cultural exchange is not only evident in her artistic pursuits but also through her proactive initiatives. Lira has successfully organized numerous international cultural events, bringing together diverse communities and promoting an understanding of Kazakh heritage on a global stage. One of her hallmark achievements is the founding of “PiuArte,” an international charity project dedicated to advancing arts education and supporting emerging artists.

Beyond her artistic endeavors, Lira embodies a holistic approach to well-being. She serves as a wellness coach and fitness instructor, guiding individuals on their paths to physical and mental health. Her advocacy for mental health awareness is reflected in her writings and community engagement, where she emphasizes the importance of emotional resilience and self-care.

Through her diverse roles, Lira Bekbolatova is not only an artist but also a visionary leader who embodies the spirit of cultural diplomacy and holistic living, making her a pivotal figure in the cultural landscape.

In this interview, we discuss her path to becoming a musician, the inspirations and experiences that shaped it, her songwriting process, and the profound impact she hopes to make through her art.

I’m sure fans would be interested in knowing more about your backstory. How did you start your project?

Music has always been an integral part of my life; it feels like a part of my identity. I’ve been surrounded by it for as long as I can remember, and it’s makes me who I am. One day, however, I started to feel that the world I had been living in was becoming too small for me. I felt an undeniable urge to expand myself, to explore beyond my boundaries. That’s when I realized I needed to create. This desire to express myself through music sparked my journey as an artist. It became my way of connecting with the world and sharing my experiences.

What are the elevator pitches for your music that’ll make people have to listen?

My music is a journey through emotions and experiences, inviting listeners to explore the depths of love, connection, beauty and self-discovery. My music is about creating a safe space for reflection and connection, where listeners can find peace and tranquility amid the chaos of life.

For newcomers to your music, if you had to pick one track that shows people who you are as an artist, which one would it be?

I’d say its “Agape”, from my EP album “Sfumature d’Amore”. This composition is about celebration, connection, and the power of love to uplift and inspire.

Please tell us a bit more about your release, “Sfumature d’Amore”. What is the message you’re trying to convey with this release?

“Sfumature d’Amore” is an exploration of love’s diverse shades, inviting listeners to experience its richness and depth. Each track tells a unique story, reflecting the beauty of our connections—whether it’s the intimacy of a romantic relationship, or the journey of self-love. The core message I want to share is that love is not just a feeling but a transformative experience that can heal and bring joy.

What do you hope listeners take away from “Sfumature d’Amore”?

I hope listeners find a deep emotional connection with Sfumature d’Amore,’ allowing them to reflect on their own experiences with love in its various forms. Each composition is crafted to evoke feelings of nostalgia and introspection, encouraging listeners to pause for a moment and truly enjoy love—whether in relationships with partners, parents, themselves, nature, or God. I believe love has the capacity to heal and enrich our lives, and I want my music to inspire listeners to cherish and celebrate these connections.

Take me through your sound design process. Does the conception come first or do the songs evolve naturally – do you have a clear idea of what it will be before you start to make it?

It begins with a clear idea—almost like a vivid picture in my mind, which can be drawn from a memory or pure imagination. Once I have that image, I explore how it makes me feel, allowing those emotions to guide my creativity. From there, I experiment with melodies and harmonies, layering sounds that match the feelings from my original idea. This mix of having a clear concept and exploring emotions helps me shape each composition into a story I want to share.

There are many descriptions of the ideal state of mind for being creative. What is it like for you? What supports this ideal state of mind and what are distractions? Are there strategies to enter this state more easily?

For me, the ideal state of mind for creativity happens when I feel a strong emotion—like anger, love, fear, or sadness. I turn these feelings into music, using that energy to drive my creativity. To support this, I need complete silence.

To wrap it up, what do you hope to do with your art in the future? I mean, do you have any crazy goals?

I have this dream of creating a multisensory immersive project that blends music, visual arts, and performing arts. I’m excited about the possibility of collaborating with artists from different disciplines to bring this vision to life, creating a space that inspires connection and exploration.

Follow Lira Bekbolatova on:
Instagram | Website | Spotify

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Still can't tell exactly my origins because of my suspiciously ‘Chinese eyes’.