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Platinum Pianist on Risk, Reinvention, and Building a Life Around the Piano

5 days ago
4 min read

I learned to take risks from a book my mom gave me when I was young: The Alchemist. I didn't fully understand it at the time, but one idea stuck with me permanently: the journey matters more than the destination. Setbacks shape who we become, and chasing your dreams isn't just worthwhile, it's what gives life its meaning.


I grew up somewhere professional opportunities for a pianist were limited, and over time I realized something important: staying put was actually the riskier choice. So when I was offered a scholarship to study in the U.S., I took it. I packed up, moved, and started over. First on the East Coast, then Hawaii, and eventually the West Coast, where I completed my Doctorate in Piano Performance. As an international student, loans weren't an option for me, so I built my path through scholarships and assistantships, which meant practicing harder and staying competitive at every turn. After years immersed in classical performance, I made another leap, stepping away from that world to build something of my own in weddings and private events, where I could connect with people on a more personal level and shape my own creative direction.



Who I Am Today


I'm a wedding and private event pianist based in Southern California, performing as The Platinum Pianist. My focus is creating unforgettable atmospheres for the moments that matter most to my clients, through a process that stays smooth, personal, and stress-free from start to finish.


Just last year, my husband, daughter, and I relocated to Southern California, and I've loved bringing my music to new audiences here. I'm originally from Slovenia, and I knew from the age of six that I wanted to play piano. A passion I've followed ever since. My doctoral training means I can sight-read almost anything, and rather than working from a standard playlist, I collaborate closely with every client to build a musical experience shaped entirely around their story.


It's been a year full of milestones: First Place and the Judges' Distinction Award from the American Protégé, with a debut at Carnegie Hall, along with the Leigh Weimers Emerging Artists Award. I also picked up a California Wedding Day finalist nomination and a Top 10 spot from City & Beach Lifestyle. Looking ahead, I'm especially excited for a season of weddings in this new chapter, plus upcoming performances at the Bellagio in Las Vegas and the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.



What I Love Most About This Work


What excites me most is the sheer freedom to move between musical styles. Weddings are deeply personal, and there's something magical about transforming a rock anthem or an EDM track into a romantic ballad, or flipping a slow song into something upbeat and celebratory. That flexibility lets me reflect each couple's personality and love story in a way that feels entirely their own.

Every wedding brings its own meaningful moments. Brides often choose processionals that echo their personal journey or love language, while grooms tend to lean toward something upbeat and energizing. Together, couples usually land on a joyful "happily-ever-after" recessional, often timed perfectly with a kiss and dip as they're introduced as married for the first time. Being part of that moment, again and again, is what makes this work so meaningful to me.

Behind every performance is a lot of care. Selecting and arranging the right music, practicing, sharing samples ahead of time, making sure every detail is in place. And once cocktail hour begins, my focus shifts entirely to reading the room, shaping an atmosphere that feels elegant and engaging for every guest, no matter their age.


Three Things That Matter Most


When people ask what it really takes to succeed in a competitive field like this, I come back to three things:


1. Embrace what sets you apart. Don't try to fit into someone else's mold. The sooner you lean into what makes you different — your sound, your story, your creative process — the stronger your voice becomes. Let people see that through your work.


2. Dedication and discipline. Talent alone isn't enough; consistency is what carries you. Yes, you need to practice and stay technically sharp, but just as important is learning to connect emotionally with an audience. That's where the real magic happens.


3. Don't quit on a bad day. As a kid, I once told my parents I wanted to quit piano. They told me I could, but only on a good day. That advice has carried me through every hard moment since. Everyone has bad days; what matters is pushing through rather than walking away.


Who I Love Working With


My ideal client is someone who wants more than background music. Someone looking for a personalized, high-end musical experience for their wedding or event. I typically perform at upscale venues for couples who want a seamless, stress-free process and trust me to handle every musical detail with care. I also love collaborating with wedding planners and venues who understand that music isn't an afterthought — it's what sets the tone and elevates the entire event.


Instagram: @platinumpianist

 
 
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