Zaria is a melodic techno artist with a background in classical piano and a variety of other instruments. Her music production journey began in September 2018 and in this short period of time, she has released several EPs and singles on a variety of labels around the world. Her eclectic musical history and passion for melody give her a unique sound that is simultaneously dark and uplifting.
Connect with Zaria on Soundcloud | Facebook | Instagram
Where are you from and what do you find inspirational about where you’re living?
Originally from Novosibirsk, Russia, my family moved to the Bay Area of California in the late 90s. Cities like San Francisco, Oakland, Santa Cruz, and Mountain View have hosted some of the industry’s most legendary musical events across all genres, as long as I’ve lived here. There was a thriving rock and metal scene here in the 90s and early 2000s, and a constantly evolving electronic music scene for at least the last 10 years. The cultural diversity and constant movement of people from all over the world, in and out of the Bay Area, really enriches the environment with variety and novelty. The Bay Area is known for being one of the technological centers of the world, but it is equally inspiring and diverse in culture and nature – there are endless hiking trails, beaches, and historical landmarks all around.
Where does your passion for electronic music come from?
I’ve always had a passion for music in general and have been involved in it in some form throughout my entire life. I started playing piano at the age of 6, and played consistently until my teenage years. Then I got involved in the Bay Area rock and metal scene, playing lead/rhythm/bass guitar in several bands. I’ve always loved electronic music and listened to it on and off my entire life, but fell in love with festival culture during my summer in Hawaii in 2011. I started learning to DJ on basic controllers several years later – mostly for fun at local parties. Upon discovering melodic techno, I decided to pursue music production with a serious determination and started producing in September of 2018.
What excites you the most as a DJ/producer?
Growing up playing classical piano, I’ve always had an appreciation for emotional, complex melodies. This has been the common thread in all of my musical passions throughout the years. When I discovered melodic techno, it took all my favourite musical elements – moody ethereal melodies, thumping basslines, and a driving beat – and tied it nicely into one genre. I knew that this is what I want to produce. I have such a deep love for the music and the specific gems of tracks I find within the genre. As a DJ, it brings me endless joy to be able to share this with the crowd and form a connection through this. It’s always exciting to open up the world of melodic techno to somebody who’s never experienced it before.
How has your music been influenced by other artists, musicians, or life in general?
My first big influence in melodic techno was the label Steyoyoke – specifically the artists Strinner, Dizharmonia, Blancah, Nick Devon, and others. Now with the melodic techno genre constantly evolving and branching out into sub-genres and styles, I’ve been enjoying darker and more minimal versions of this genre. I think my favorite thing about this journey so far has been the community. Everybody is so supportive and wants the best for everyone else. People will always find time to give feedback, advice, and encouragement – and I am very grateful for that.
How do you see your future within the electronic music scene?
It’s hard to tell what will happen in the future, especially with the current health crisis in the world – it’s completely changed the way the electronic music scene is structured and how it stays alive. I recently started my own label Valkyria Records – I am hoping to continue to grow the label, and help support talented artists I believe in (and there are many of them). I am also going to continue to evolve my own sound and production, contribute to projects and labels I admire, and remain optimistic in terms of the social event aspect of the scene.
What can we expect from the mix you made us?
It starts out melodic and progressive and evolves into a darker, moodier direction throughout the mix. It contains some of my current favourite tracks and is a good representation of the direction into which my tastes have been evolving. I hope you enjoy listening to the mix as much as I enjoyed making it.
Thank you!