From singing in her crib to performing internationally, Tatiana Sayko’s journey reflects a lifelong passion for music. In this interview, she shares the key experiences and inspirations that have shaped her growth. She also offers insight into her creative drive and future aspirations.

What initially drew you to your current field, and how has your journey evolved since then?

I’ve been singing literally since I was born — I used to lie in my crib and sing before falling asleep. My parents noticed this and took me to vocal lessons when I was four. Since then, my voice has become more confident, my technique has developed, and I’ve learned to sing with proper breath support.

Can you share a pivotal experience that significantly influenced your career or personal growth?

When I was four and a half, my mom took me to Italy to visit her favorite places. At an opera performance in the Papal Throne Hall at Palazzo Doria Pamphilj in Rome, I heard real Italian opera for the first time, performed by Paola Alonzo. We were also shown the princess’s chambers, and after the concert Paola picked me up in her arms and called me “Principessa.” After that, I decided that I also wanted to develop my singing. The incredible hospitality and kindness of these wonderful people had a huge influence on my inspiration.

What hidden talents or hobbies do you have that might surprise people?

For example, chess, drawing, and playing the piano.

How do you stay creatively inspired and motivated in your work?

I’m inspired by the way my voice sounds, and it makes me want to keep singing.

Is there a tradition or custom from your upbringing that still holds a special place in your life?

In my family, the most important principle passed down through generations is the priority of education and the development of cognitive abilities. That’s why I easily learn several foreign languages, have been programming since early childhood, study sciences, play chess, and truly enjoy it. We also have a sweet tradition to visit a beautiful house of Olga Bovina to listen to private classic concerts or to sing ourselves since I was 6. It is called “Not Boring Castle” and has traditions of collecting antique music instruments started by her spouse Alexander Bovin who unfortunately left us already. A lot of kids who love classic music visit this place and can play or use different instruments.

What has been the most challenging project or situation in your career, and how did you navigate it?

The most challenging piece for me was Solveig’s Song. I worked on it for a long time, but now I can perform it very beautifully.

Who has been a major influence or mentor in your life, and what lessons have they imparted?

My mom — she always tells me to focus on myself and my own talents, and not to chase after anyone.

Can you recount a turning point or milestone in your career that was particularly significant?

The most important moment was when I was admitted to music school and met a large number of people who support me: my longtime vocal teacher, Elizaveta Rispolozhenskaya, accompanists (Timur Semenov), school managers like Galina Pozhidaeva, teachers of other subjects such as music history, solfeggio, piano (Lyudmila Shumnaya), and many friends. It is a very kind, supportive, and caring environment.

In December 2025, I won second place performing Barbarina’s aria in Italian at a competition in China, with the support of the Beijing International College of Arts and the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation. I am very grateful for the opportunity to participate and to receive the support of the global cultural community.

Aside from your professional work, what passions or interests do you pursue?

I have many interests. I love drawing, and in everyday life I usually spend time with my friends — we go for walks, play games, or cook together. Recently, my friend Liza from music school and I have been enjoying making chocolate pancakes.

In your opinion, what are the essential qualities or skills needed to succeed in your industry?

Beyond talent, the most important thing is the ability to communicate with people and present yourself properly — on stage, in society, and in everyday life.

What book, movie, or artistic work has significantly shaped your worldview or professional approach?

I’m especially inspired by art — like the monumental Water Lilies by Claude Monet at the Musée de l’Orangerie in Paris — those large, immersive paintings made a deep impression on me. I also love the works of Sandro Botticelli in Florence, and Venetian Murano glass, which is translucent, beautiful, and very delicate.

What piece of advice would you offer to someone aspiring to make a mark in your field?

The most important things are music school, community, and travel, where you can meet inspiring people. And of course, attending live concerts and performances with real music from different genres and eras.

How do you find balance between your professional responsibilities and personal well-being?

Just like my voice is different when I sing and in everyday life, my behavior is different too. In life, I’m cheerful and emotional, but in my work I’m serious and focused.

If you could collaborate with anyone, past or present, in your field, who would it be and why?

I would love to perform a beautiful duet with Polina Yanysheva, or the Flower Duet with Paola.

Looking toward the future, what are your major goals or aspirations, both personally and professionally?

In my professional life, I want to achieve even greater beauty and purity of tone, and higher mastery. In my personal life, I would love to live somewhere sunny, closer to the sea.

What are your thoughts on Milan as a hub for creativity and innovation, and how do you think it compares to other major cities in your field?

Milan is one of the most remarkable cities, where you can feel an incredible creative freedom rooted in cultural and civilizational traditions that are thousands of years old and I am amazed by this combination!