Music Teacher and Coach with over a decade of experience – University-Certified Teacher with Classical & Jazz/Rock/Pop Vocal Training and Completed Preparatory Music Education

Find out more about Maira

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

  My passion for music developed when I was a child, singing at family gatherings and school events. I formally began my journey during a preparatory program at the Youth Music School in Hamburg, where I studied voice and music theory. My voice became my favorite instrument - it feels incredibly personal and versatile, allowing me to explore different styles like classical, jazz, and rock.

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

  Yes, I can listen to Amy Winehouse, Billie Holiday, and Lana Del Rey on a loop. Amy's raw, emotional authenticity, Billie's timeless elegance, and Lana's dreamlike storytelling all captivate me. Their music transports me to different emotional landscapes and never loses its impact, no matter how often I listen.

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

  The most challenging course I could offer would be guiding a student through the art of improvisation in jazz. It requires a deep understanding of theory, the ability to trust your intuition, and a willingness to take risks. Helping students break free from rigid structures and embrace the freedom of creativity is both thrilling and transformative.

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

  The violin stands out as one of the most complicated instruments to master. It demands precision in technique, an exceptional ear for pitch, and years of dedication to develop the nuanced expressions that make it so moving. Every detail, from bowing to finger placement, contributes to its complexity.

• 5. What are your keys to success?

  My keys to success are passion, perseverance, and connection. Passion drives me to keep learning and growing, perseverance helps me overcome challenges, and connection - with my students, my audience, and fellow musicians - creates the meaningful experiences that fuel my creativity.

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

  • Amy Winehouse - Her voice carried so much soul and pain, and I'd love to understand her creative process and how she turned personal struggles into art.
  
  • Billie Holiday - Her ability to communicate raw emotion with such grace and depth makes her one of my greatest inspirations.
  
  • Lana Del Rey - I admire her unique, cinematic approach to storytelling in music, and I'd love to hear about her inspirations and creative vision.

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

  During my time at the Youth Music School, I struggled with stage fright during a solo performance. My teacher told me, "Your voice is a gift, not just for you but for others to hear." That moment shifted my perspective, and I realized that performing is not about perfection but about connection.
  
  Later in my career, I had an unforgettable moment performing with my rock band, Beautiful Freaks, when I emerged from dry ice on stage, stepping out of the darkness into the light. It felt so powerful and surreal - like stepping into my own energy as an artist.
  
  Another cherished memory is jamming "Lullaby of Birdland" at my favorite jazz club, Birdland in Hamburg. The intimacy of the setting and the magic of connecting with the audience through music were pure joy. These moments remind me of why I love what I do.
  
  You may watch me on my YouTube Channel in Birdland Club:
  
  https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=i94g18ATv-w&pp=ygUbTWFpcmEgbWFyYXZpbGxvc2EgYmlyZGxhbmQg

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

  I plan every lesson to the student's unique strengths and goals, blending technical training with creative exploration. My experience as a performer allows me to share practical insights, and my focus on motivation helps students unlock their potential. Most importantly, I aim to inspire a genuine love for music that lasts a lifetime.