Arina Grybkova, also known by her artist nickname Ariana, is a name that resonates with the harmonious blend of cultures and music in the United Arab Emirates. Born in Odessa, Ukraine, Ariana’s musical journey began at the tender age of four, driven by her innate love for music and the violin. Her affinity for music was undeniable, particularly for the enchanting melodies of the violin. With each note, she found solace, expression, and a profound connection to the world around her. Little did she know, this love for music would lead her on an extraordinary path, spanning continents and cultures.
In this captivating interview, we talked about different facets of her musical journey. Ariana told us about her journey as a musician, starting from early beginnings in Ukraine to becoming a prominent violin artist in the UAE,
“My passion for music began at the age of 4 when I first picked up the violin. It was a conscious decision, driven by my deep attachment to music and musical instruments, particularly the piano. However, the violin held a special allure for me, sparking dreams of performing on stage in front of an audience. I began performing at a young age, even during my college studies and conservatory. I eagerly embraced any possible opportunities, from working in Dramatic Theatre to playing in orchestras and bands of various genres, spanning minimalism, jazz, and rock. Each experience allowed me to explore art in its entirety, immersing myself in different artistic currents.
Straight after graduation, I went to China for a 7-month work contract. It was eye-opening – I played for much bigger audiences and had a whole new different culture to explore. I wanted to stay longer, but life took a different turn. In 2017, I came to the UAE for another work contract. Here I found a new home and fell in love with the local culture, so I decided to develop it more ever since. Mixing my music and style with the UAE’s vibrant energy has been an amazing experience.”
Over the past six years, the UAE has become Ariana’s second home. Fascinated by the rich Khaleeji culture and history of the UAE, she delved deeper into the local music scene. She shared her excitement about becoming the first female violinist performing Khaleeji music in UAE,
“It’s been fascinating, exploring the culture and history of the UAE since I arrived here. However, I’ve noticed a disappointing trend among musicians in the events and entertainment industry. Many seem more focused on performing Western standards than embracing the rich musical heritage of the region. It’s a missed opportunity for a country with such a vibrant culture not to showcase its own music, especially at weddings and events.
Gradually, I embarked on a journey to infuse my performances with more Arabic music, particularly focusing on the rich tradition of Khaleeji music and its cherished classics. I’m proud to say that my initiative has not only changed market trends but also sparked fresh requests for authentic Arabic music experiences.” Ariana said with pride.
With solid experience in performing at numerous events, Ariana took us through some memorable moments or performances that have had a significant impact on her musical journey, “One of the most significant platforms for me has been the Main stage performances at Global Village. There, I’ve had the privilege of performing for thousands of people during National Day celebrations and Ramadan. It’s at this stage that I can truly share the richness of Arabic music with a diverse audience, making it a profoundly rewarding experience.” She added with enthusiasm.
Ariana’s passion for music is matched by her love for languages and cultural diversity. Fluent in Ukrainian, Russian, and English, she is also proficient in French and is currently learning Arabic and the Arabic Oud.
“Growing up in a multicultural and multinational city had a huge impact on my quest for knowledge. Language is not only intricately linked to culture and art, – it serves as a vital tool for connecting and understanding people from diverse backgrounds. I believe that mastering multiple languages will deepen my connections with different people, and give me more understanding of different mentalities and traditions, as every corner of this world is truly unique. Moreover, should not forget that music is tightly connected with literature, and behind almost any great song or piece there is a story or a poem.” Ariana explained.
Ariana has a passion for uncovering diverse cultures through travel. This influenced her approach to music and performance, especially in a multicultural environment like the UAE, “I would say it’s directly connected in general to learning languages and discovering different cultures. Thirst for the knowledge. There are so many things to learn and discover – including nature, architecture, and traces of previous empires, and civilizations. I find it amazing.” She replied.
Having performed at over 300 Emirati weddings, Ariana’s music has become synonymous with love, joy, and celebration. From the dazzling stages of the Sharjah Light Festival to the cultural extravaganza of Global Village, her performances have left an indelible mark on audiences worldwide.
“So far, I’m honoured to collaborate with various government departments in UAE and take part in different cultural events, including public festivals and celebrations.
While I’ve been focusing on promoting Khaleeji music through my performances, my playlist is diverse, featuring pieces from many countries. I approach each collaboration with deep respect for every culture’s heritage, aiming to create meaningful connections through music.” She clarified her role in promoting cultural exchange and understanding through music.
As a musician, Ariana balances preserving traditional music and culture while also incorporating contemporary elements into her performances. “I cultivate my artistic style that reflects my individuality. While I honour the essence and significance of each cultural piece, I refrain from mere replication, preferring to infuse my creativity into every aspect—from attire to music selection. This approach allows me to maintain authenticity while adding a personal touch that resonates with audiences.” She revealed the secret.
Ariana’s commitment to community engagement is equally commendable. From connecting to the community with her performance during every Ramadan in Global Village to lending her musical expertise to various government and charitable organizations, she continues to use her platform to make a positive impact on society.
In her pursuit of musical excellence, Ariana’s journey has taken her across continents, from her early performances in Ukraine to her immersive experience in China. Each experience has enriched her craft, broadened her horizons, and shaped her into the artist she is today.
