1. For many artists, they cite a defining moment for themselves when they knew they wanted to be a singer.  For many it was the appearance of Elvis on the Ed Sullivan show, to another generation it was the Beatles’ appearance on Sullivan half a decade later.  Is there such a defining moment for you? 

Watching "The Little Mermaid" at the age of 7. I clearly remember "Part Of Your World" sequence, and how mesmerized I was. That's when I decided: I'm going to have the same long hair and sing like her. 
So it was the desire to sing that came first, but not the determination to be a singer as a main occupation in life. That didn't happen until 2008, when I won "American Chance" TV music contest in LA, USA.


2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to?  Who are some of your favorites?

I have no limits in music that I listen to. It all depends on my mood, on what exactly I'm doing, or on the weather :) It could be Alanis Morissette, or "Lion King" on Broadway, or "Green Day", or Lara Fabian, or David Cook. 
I love powerful soundtracks to movies, and also classic music. 


3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live? 
Being announced a winner of a music contest/TV show "American Chance" in L.A. A few thousand girls from all over Ukraine were auditioned to get into final 12, who went to L.A. for the actual contest to be judged by world celebrities in separate singing, dancing, on-camera presence, modeling competitions. All the country was watching the show, and it was a big joy and a great reward in the end of the process of finding the ultimate goal for me. That's when I knew I wanted to pursue singing professionally, and use all my skills to to an impact on some world issues (first and foremost, animal rights and environmental protection). 


4.  Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to?   How much can music influence current events? 
Not only can it change the world, it has been doing that as long as it existed. Whether some songs can just create the right mood, others can be a powerful message and even a philosophy. It can either drive
the crowd mad or calm it down. I always think of World War 2- Great Patriotic War for USSR- and a huge part that songs of that time played in the victory. They were an anthem, an inspiration, support, and also
honoring and tributing the heroes who never returned. At the moment, music must be a tool of change, fighting brainwashing and blindness, building up and giving strength. I find too much of what is now on air is doing quite the opposite. On a lighter note, music must be uplifting and give confidence and assurance. For every single thing that is happening is born in our minds. Once setlled and at peace, great deeds can result. Music itself is a powerful tool indeed, and it's rather complementing- movies, news, actions, life. Music defines so much. Be wise when you choose your soundtrack ;)  


5. How has technology affected the music industry?  How has technology affected your career as a musician?
The main thing is the growth of independent artists number, who use Internet in promoting their work. Thus, some of them can gain popularity even before approaching the label. It's the label who find them, so things are going topsy turvy in music world. As I am an independent artist too, I use Internet to familiarize the audience with my music, too. It also provides an excellent opportunity to get a quick and honest feedback, which is crucial when you are managing your career without a label. Can't but mention Internet radios and TV-channels: it's a perfect place to get some coverage and gain new audience. And being from Ukraine, it's really handy to write songs over Skype with fellow musicians from anywhere on the globe. With all the software available now, it's easy to work at a home studio, say you have you Mac with GarageBand or Soundtrack Pro, a keyboard, a mic- and you are all set!



6.  Now for my Barbara Walters question:  If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?

Dr Marten's knee-high boots!