Royal Conservatory of Music Certificates:
- Harp – RCM Level 10
- Piano – RCM ARCT
- Violin – RCM Level 9
- Music Theory – RCM ARCT
Thanks to my music teachers who inspired me not only to love music but to share music with others!
Lori Gemmell,
Harp Teacher
Lori Gammell has been the principal harpist with the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony since 1999. She previously performed with Orchestra London and the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra. A graduate of the University of Toronto, she studied with Judy Loman, as well as Catherine Michel in Paris and Alice Chalifoux in Maine. Lori has appeared as a soloist with major Canadian orchestras and toured internationally with Le NEM. She records with popular artists, including Feist, and performs regularly at chamber festivals.
Svetlana Filippova,
Violin Teacher
Svetlana Filippova is a Moscow-born violinist and music educator, trained in the esteemed Russian violin school tradition, began her studies at age four. An award-winning performer, she toured extensively with prominent orchestras and conductors. Since immigrating to Canada in 1990, she has excelled as a recitalist and dedicated teacher, inspiring numerous students.
(Canada Academy of Music & Arts)
Artem Kopylov,
Piano Teacher
Young Steinway Artist Artem Kopylov is an award-winning pianist studying with Prof. Olga Chichova in Toronto. He has won top prizes in competitions such as Steinway & Sons (New York), GOCAA (Boston), and the Nutcracker (Moscow), and has performed with orchestras in Toronto, Burlington, and Moscow. His performances have aired on CBC and Radio-Canada. Artem has played in major venues worldwide, including Carnegie Hall, and studied with leading pianists through international masterclasses.
(Canada Academy of Music & Arts)
Irina Kapran,
Music Theory Teacher
Irina Kapran is a respected music theory teacher who has guided students from basic to advanced levels. Her lessons deepen understanding of music structure, enhancing creativity, expression, and communication. Irina’s expertise has improved students’ technical skills and instrumental playing, providing a strong foundation for their musical journeys and future endeavors.
(Mississauga School of Music)
I would also like to thank Professor Arash Noori, who made me believe in my dream and encouraged me to go for my musical adventure.
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my former violin teacher, Vira Burmenko, for her invaluable guidance and inspiration. Her exceptional performance skills and dedication to teaching have deeply influenced me, shaping my own approach to being a confident performer and advancing my violin techniques.
I would like to thank my former piano teacher, Roman Cooperman, for his guidance and support in preparing me for the RCM Grade 10 and ARCT exams, as well as for his inspiring instruction in composition.