Anastasia Prokofieva, lyric soprano

Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in music and who or what have been the most important influences on your musical life and career?

My mother is a violin teacher, and she has been a major influence in my life. Because of her, I grew up surrounded by music—musicians, festivals, competitions, master classes, and concerts were a natural part of my everyday world.

I began my musical journey as a violinist, and following her advice, I later decided to take lessons as a classical singer. This decision allowed me to discover my true artistic voice.

One of my greatest inspirations is Maria Callas. I have always admired her honesty and emotional depth. Like her, I strive to be fragile and completely open on stage—almost heart-naked—while still maintaining strength and power in my performance.”

What have been the greatest challenges of your career so far?

Performing in different languages is very challenging and requires a great deal of work. It involves extensive study, coaching with language specialists, constant correction, and a high level of focus and determination.

I genuinely enjoy languages, and for me it is important not only to perform in them, but also to learn how to speak and understand them. This helps me connect more deeply with the music, the text, and the character I am portraying.

Which performances/recordings are you most proud of?

I am very proud of my recording with the Kyiv Symphony Orchestra. This album presents some of the most beautiful arias by different composers, and it was a very meaningful artistic experience for me to work, record and perform with this amazing orchestra.

Which particular works/composers do you think you perform best?

I feel most connected to the Romantic repertoire, particularly works by composers such as Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninov, and Puccini. Their music allows me to combine vocal power with emotional vulnerability, which is very important to me as an artist.

I also feel very comfortable performing classical romances, where storytelling and emotional nuance play a central role. This repertoire allows me to explore intimacy, language, and expression in a very personal way.

How do you make your repertoire choices from season to season?

My repertoire choices from season to season are guided by both artistic growth and vocal development. I choose works that suit my voice at that particular moment, while also allowing me to explore new technical and expressive challenges.

Do you have a favourite concert venue to perform in and why?

I don’t have just one single favourite venue, because each concert hall has its own atmosphere and energy. However, I especially love performing in places where the acoustics allow for intimacy and clarity, so I can feel a close connection with the audience.

One hall that has always impressed me is the Bolshoi Hall at the Tchaikovsky Conservatory. It has a unique acoustic, especially for pianissimo passages, which helps project the voice beautifully and truly gives wings to the singer’s sound. Performing there is an unforgettable experience that inspires me to express both subtlety and power in my singing.

What do you do off stage that provides inspiration on stage?

I find inspiration in nature—walking in the park or being near a lake or the sea—and in other art forms like ballet, painting, and theatre.

Experiences at places like the Royal Opera House have also deeply influenced me, helping me bring more emotion, depth, and storytelling to my singing.

What is your most memorable concert experience?

One of my most memorable concert experiences was performing in North Korea. The reaction of the audience was incredibly warm and touching. Their enthusiasm and sincerity created a unique, unforgettable connection, and it reminded me of the universal power of music to move and unite people across cultures.

As a musician, what is your definition of success?

For me success as a musician is being able to choose and perform repertoire in which you can express yourself at your very best. It is the freedom to be creative and honest as an artist. I truly believe that classical music has the power to heal souls.

It is like a source of hope and a great treasure that we have inherited from previous generations—their ability to love, respect, and feel deeply. We have a responsibility to pass this legacy on to the next generation, and being able, at times, to perform rare repertoire is a great responsibility and privilege.

What do you feel needs to be done to grow classical music’s audiences?

I strongly believe that classical music is essential in children’s education. It would be wonderful if children, from an early age, could listen to classical music, learn to play instruments, participate in choirs, and attend live performances. These experiences not only cultivate musical skills but also inspire creativity, emotional awareness, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

What’s the one thing in the music industry we’re not talking about which you think we should be?

I think as a society we could benefit greatly by recognising how important classical music and musicians are. Young people, in particular, need much more support and appreciation, because dedicating one’s life to this art is a long and challenging journey. Valuing and encouraging musicians at every stage helps ensure that this art form continues to thrive and inspire future generations.

What advice would you give to young or aspiring musicians?

One piece of advice I would give is to keep going no matter what. Life as a musician is a marathon, and even small pauses or disappointments can teach very important lessons that lead to great triumphs.

Always be grateful to the people who believe in you and support you. Keep pursuing your passion, and enjoy the amazing, colourful journey that music—and life—has to offer.

What is your most treasured possession?

My most treasured possession is peace and harmony. I believe many things could change if our decisions were guided by love and care for others.

Sergey Rybin and Anastasia Prokofieva’s new SOMM album of Arensky & Rachmaninoff Romances SOMMCD 0716 is out on 20 February: Find out more

anastasiaprokofieva.com