Accordion teacher with 28+ years of playing experience and 15+ years of teaching, helping students build technique, confidence, and musicality

Find out more about Ostap

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

  I developed a passion for music as a child. When I was about six, I started playing the accordion just out of curiosity. At first, it was just fun, but the more I played, the more I got into it. Over time, I realized how many different styles and emotions this instrument could express, and that's what kept me hooked. Additionally, having perfect pitch enhanced my musical experience, allowing me to appreciate and interpret music on a deeper level.

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

  I love music and listen to a wide variety of styles. I don't stick to just one artist on repeat, but I do enjoy jazz a lot. I often listen to Richard Galliano-I really appreciate his playing, and sometimes I just enjoyit, while other times I analyze his approach and phrasing.

• 3) Explain to us the most difficult or riveting course you could personally give to a student of music.

  I don't just teach how to play a specific piece, but I focus on helping students understand how music works as a whole, depending on their goals. For example, if a student wants to play classical music strictly from sheet music, we dive deeper into notation, theory, and technical aspects. On the other hand, if the student's goal is to jam with other musicians, we focus more on things like chord progressions, accompaniment, and improvisation. My aim is to help the student achieve exactly what they want, with a solid understanding of theory and a creative approach.

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

  Each instrument has its own challenges and nuances, so it's hard to pinpoint one as the most complicated. Some instruments have their own specific difficulties, like the violin, where precision in intonation is crucial, or the French horn, which requires exceptional breath control and embouchure. The pan flute also presents its own challenges, as it requires perfect air control and timing to achieve the right pitch. Ultimately, mastering any instrument takes dedication and the ability to work through its unique complexities.

• 5) What are your keys to success?

  My keys to success are consistency, passion, and adaptability. Consistency in practice and work is essential-it's the foundation for improvement. Passion drives everything I do, whether performing or teaching. And adaptability is crucial, as every student or musical project is different. Being able to adjust and find creative solutions keeps me growing both as a musician and a teacher.

• 6) Name three musicians you dream of meeting in your favourite bar in the early hours of the morning. Explain why.

  I would love to meet Richard Galliano, Jamie Cullum, and Astor Piazzolla. Just have a cup of coffee, talk about life, discuss ordinary things-not music-and perhaps engage in some philosophical conversation. I really hope to meet Galliano soon.

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

  Once during our tour in Switzerland, we encountered the classic musician's nightmare: 20 minutes before the concert, we realized we'd forgotten the double bass. In a panic, we scrambled through the quaint town and luckily, the local music school lent us a children's double bass. Our bassist cautiously
  played the concert, fearing each string might break it.

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

  As a music educator, I strive to balance essential theoretical knowledge with engaging, practical application, ensuring that students grasp concepts without feeling overwhelmed by complex terminology. My extensive experience in arranging music enables me to customize pieces for the accordion, allowing students to explore a wide range of repertoire, including non-traditional works, thereby enhancing their learning experience.