AN aspiring student composer in Ealing is making waves on the world stage, refusing to let COVID-19 stop her from reaching her dream of a lifelong career in music.

Despite taking more than a decade out of education after being told she didn't have the talent to compose, Iryna Gould is now in her final year studying Songwriting and Recording at the London College of Music (LCM) and following her passions in Europe.

The musician went on to compose a full ballet, writing all 11 suites and even travelling to her home city of Kiev to have the piece recorded by the Ukrainian Radio Symphony Orchestra in one of the biggest studios in Eastern Europe.

Despite COVID restrictions meaning the piece couldn't be performed in London, Gould was at least able to see her talents shine as 60 musicians brought her creation to life on stage.

Iryna said: "This was such an important project for me, it was the first time I've heard my music played by an orchestra on such a scale which was an incredible experience.

"I just knew that this is exactly what I want to be doing and where my true calling is.

"It has always been my dream to compose, but when I was much younger I was discouraged by a teacher saying I had no talent.

"I felt like I wasn't good enough and stopped recording and playing for many years.

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"I focused on my children and continued to teach, but the more time passed the more I knew I couldn't ignore this passion and decided to come to LCM and start again and now I know I do have the ability and I can do this.

"I have met so many incredible people at LCM, it has completely rebuilt my confidence and to have this recognition after so long doubting myself is so important.

"Whatever happens in life, you have to be determined and never give up and I am excited to see where my studies lead me next."