Creative Spotlight | Masha Mnjoyan
Published on 07 October 2021
Tell us a bit about who you are and what kind of creative work you make
I am Masha Mnjoyan, an Armenian singer/songwriter based in Sydney. I am one of those people who has devoted most of their lives to music and have no regrets about it. I began singing when I was four years old and have progressed to a very professional level, graduating from a conservatory and then relocating to Australia for additional education and more opportunities. Winning "The Voice" in my home country of Armenia in 2013 is the most significant accomplishment to date, and becoming a semi-finalist on "The Voice" in Australia in 2020 was a confidence booster that helped me to keep going, rising to the top of my profession and achieve the greatest success.
Whereabouts do you look for creative ideas? Who or what inspires you?
I am a highly emotional person; I may seem the opposite at times, but I like feeling everything. The same is in the production of art. My sentiments, genuine emotions, yearning, love, and disappointment make up my inspiration. I also get inspiration from previously composed music, nature, and other sources. But, like with any creative process, my muse emerges when I collaborate with individuals who have amazing and wild ideas, when we can exchange non-standard viewpoints and create something unique and beautiful. I like to keep up with the latest trends and monitor social media to see what others are up to, but when I go to work, I like to do something different from everyone.
How does your personal history, culture or experience inform your creative work?
My background, family, and cultural heritage are the loudest things in my creative works in terms of melody, lyrics and interpretation. My goal is one day to create music that is a combination of my Armenian cultural music and a European, American style on a global level.
What is a creative project that you’ve worked on that you’re really proud of? Why?
I am now pursuing a master's degree in composition at the Australian Institute of Music. Creating compositions in unfamiliar genres is both exciting and educational for me, and I am pleased of the fact that in only one year, I was able to acquire all of the techniques and subtleties necessary to create orchestral, techno, and folk music. Hopefully, one day, I'll be able to compose music for films and other major projects.
What creative project are you working on at the moment?
At the moment I am working on a really interesting and fascinating collaboration with Globant & AIVA Technologies (artificial Intelligence Virtual Artist) where I'm recording vocals for the software. Music is composed by human intellect.
What has been the highlight of your creative career so far?
Obviously, winning the well-known singing show "The Voice."
What’s your favourite part of working as an artist / creative?
I often remark that I am one of the fortunate people who gets to do what I enjoy doing. Being a representative of a certain field of art is a great honour. The ability to express feelings, to create something new, to share your musical ideas with other creative artists, to meet many brilliant individuals and participants from the industry and beyond are some of the most enjoyable aspects of this career.
What’s the most challenging part of working as an artist / creative?
Over the years, I've come to understand one thought which is that artists must be unrestricted in all senses of the word. Physically, intellectually, financially, and in a timely manner; otherwise, the creation will always remain incomplete. Even if one is struggling from these elements, it is a significant difficulty.
Do you have any rituals or routines that help you to be more creative?
It is no secret that following one's inspiration is a popular practice among artists and innovators. The sole routine I've established for myself is to leave everything at the time when I get a good thought and attempt to write it down or record it if the idea is in the shape of a song.
Do you have any top tips for emerging artists and creatives just starting out?
The most important thing is to pursue your goals and believe in yourself; don't be swayed by other people's negativity. Sing, compose music, and design your own journey.
Where can we find out more about your work and get in touch?
Website: mashamnjoyan.com
Instagram: instagram.com/masha__mnjoyan
Facebook: facebook.com/MashaMaryMnjoyan
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1rUE1knJcZHqQrhesIZctP