Introducing Maryam Raya, an international acclaimed pianist praised for her “dynamic stage presence” by the Union of Excellence, her Fall 2019 season alone featured a lecture recital at Columbia University, two recitals for New York’s premiere fashion and film communities, a recital abroad in Paris, a featured recital in Sicily’s premiere international piano festival, and a return to Stern Auditorium, Carnegie Hall to perform a concerto with orchestra. Maryam gave her first recital at the age of nine. By the age of fourteen, her playing had already attracted professional reviews and she made her first appearance in Carnegie Hall at the age of sixteen. A prize winner of numerous competitions and awards, she has given recitals thought the United States at halls which include The National Gallery of Art, The Phillips Collection, the Kennedy Center, Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, Tenri Cultural Institute, The National Opera Center, The Kosciuszko Foundation, the Smithsonian Institution, the Embassy of Poland, and the Embassy of France, among others. Maryam has also appeared worldwide in England, Spain, France, Italy, China, Estonia, Latvia, Finland, and Dubai. She possesses an extensive repertoire that includes numerous recital programs and over thirty concerti with orchestra. As we commence a brand new year, we decided to catch up with Maryam Raya to discuss life, inspirations, and her passion for performing.
You are a complete artist, and not only at the piano. What inspired you to get into music?
I began piano lessons when I was four years old, and I became increasingly obsessed as a young teenager. I couldn’t imagine my life without an instrument. It wasn’t a conscious choice.
How would you describe the music you like to perform?
I tend to lean towards the more virtuoso repertoire. I am drawn to repertoire that drives the piano to new limits, new heights, repertoire that is completely original & fully engaging.
What would you say is your performance style?
I don’t feel the “fourth wall”, the wall between myself & my audience. Of course, I am very much aware that I am on stage, and I am completely absorbed in the worlds of sound I create. However, I am also very open & receptive to the energy & dynamic I feel from an audience. I feel a strong sense of communication with those present.
Where would you like to see your career in 5 years time?
I would like to see myself collaborating with more artists in fashion & film on an international level. At this point, my activities in this regard have been exclusively based in New York City.
Where can music fans listen to your music?
You can follow my professional social media pages on Facebook and on Instagram. I also have a new website in the works. I look forward to sharing that on all social media in due time, so make sure to follow me there!