Soprano

Irina Terentyeva

In the choir since 2019

Biography
Interview

Irina Terentyeva is a graduate of the Ulyanovsk music college (choir
conducting) and the Gnessin State Music College (vocal performance). In 2011, she completed her studies at the Popov Choral Arts Academy (vocal performance). During her studies, Irina participated in numerous tours to Germany, Switzerland, Austria, France, Greece and Japan together with the student choir, where she frequently performed as a soloist.

In 2008–2014, she was a member of the “Madrigal” soloist ensemble. In 2014–2019, she was a soloist at the Moscow Regional Philharmonic. Since autumn 2019, Irina Terentyeva has been a member of the musicAeterna choir.

WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A MUSICIAN?

I became interested in music back in my early childhood. We had a record of “Tales from the Vienna Woods” at home; my mother says I always used to start singing whenever it was put on. So when my parents suggested I should go to music school, I didn’t think twice.

WHAT PART DOES MUSIC PLAY IN YOUR LIFE?

It’s my job, my favourite pastime, my feelings and my mood. Music is my life.

WHAT MAKES MUSICAETERNA STAND OUT?

Teodor Currentzis for sure. As soon as he starts conducting, everything changes. You get an instant surge of inspiration and it becomes crystal clear what you’re supposed to do. Teodor is an incredibly charismatic person — it took me by surprise when I first met him.

ASIDE FROM MUSIC, WHAT ELSE ARE YOU INTERESTED IN?

Dancing, of course. As a child, I used to study ballet dancing — and I hope to resume that if I get a chance. Aside from that, pretty much anything can influence me in some way and give me certain emotions: books, art, cinema, nature, smells. Emotions are crucial to me. Even my voice doesn’t sound the same if I’m disinterested.

WHAT IS YOUR TYPICAL SCHEDULE ON THE DAY OF A CONCERT?

It’s totally ordinary, really. I just make sure I’m well-rested and not hungry.

WHAT IS YOUR “DESERT ISLAND” MUSIC ALBUM?

Pietro Locatelli’s violin concertos, I guess. That music is gorgeous — I could listen to it forever.