Shakhnaze Ilyassova is not just a name; it is a world of talent, passion, and good deeds. Known as a musician, an outstanding kobyz teacher, and a laureate of many prestigious competitions, Shakhnaze impresses with her versatility and determination. Let's dive into some of the most interesting facts from her life that reveal her unique character.
Two Names and One Calling
Shakhnaze has two names: Shakhnaze, the official one given to her at birth, and Nazeka, a pet name used by family and close friends.
Regardless of what she’s called, her calling to music and helping people remains unwavering.
In Kazakh, ‘Nazeka’ (Kazakh: Нәзік) means ‘gentle,’ ‘fragile,’ ‘delicate,’ or ‘graceful.’
Perfect Pitch: A Gift or Hard Work?
Shakhnaze possesses perfect pitch, but according to her, it’s the result of years of training and playing a string instrument.
She can effortlessly identify any note or interval on a piano, even with her eyes closed.
This skill is a testament to her dedication to music.
A Heart Open to Charity
Charity holds a special place in Shakhnaze’s life.
She has participated in charitable concerts and events around 8 times, raising funds for surgeries, cancer treatments, and the purchase of wheelchairs.
Shakhnaze not only performed but also bought tickets herself and sometimes personally delivered the money to those in need. In addition, she was a volunteer, helping the elderly with household chores (sweeping yards, clearing snow, putting coal in stoves) and participating in a “boxes of kindness” drive, collecting food for large and low-income families.
A Unique Teaching Method
Shakhnaze is an innovator in pedagogy. She developed and patented her own teaching method titled “Practical Methods for Easing Homework for All Students of String Instruments.”
This method allows students to practice at home without an instrument and still become competition laureates. Thanks to this, Shakhnaze has achieved equality among students who have instruments and those who don’t, and she no longer has any lagging students.
She is a caring and kind teacher who even brings treats for her students and asks them to bring mugs in the winter to warm up, creating a cozy and welcoming learning atmosphere.
In addition to teaching, Shakhnaze is actively involved in creative pursuits. To date, she has written around 10 of her own musical pieces. She also enjoys creating rap-overs.
Her hobbies are not limited to music; Shakhnaze also writes poetry, for which she received a letter of appreciation at the “Kіtap-show” festival.
Continuous Self-Improvement
Shakhnaze is a prime example of a person who is constantly striving for self-improvement.
She received around 30 certificates for professional development courses this academic year.
The courses covered various topics, such as: “Mission as a Tool for Teacher Anti-Burnout,” “Divergent Thinking,” “Forming and Developing a Teacher’s Personal Brand in the Digital Space,” “Clip Thinking. Agile and Scrum Technology,” and “New Trends in Secondary and Higher Education – evidence from the UAE,” as well as a course in music therapy.
An innate love for people and a tendency towards compassion
Shakhnaze really wanted to become a blood donor to help those in need, but unfortunately, doctors advised her not to do so due to her underweight condition in order to avoid risks.
This only confirms her innate desire to help others.
Unusual Facts from Her Life:
Early Start, Great Work Ethic:
At around 13 years old, Shakhnaze worked online publishing news, which speaks to her strong work ethic from a young age.
Seashell Collector:
Shakhnaze is fond of collecting seashells.
Life Without a TV:
Shakhnaze hasn’t watched TV for about 5 years, even though she has three at home! The question about her favorite movie or show puts her on the spot.
Shakhnaze — A Winner in Life: Resilience and High Standards in Everything
Shakhnaze Ilyassova is a person who not only achieves great heights in her professional field but also demonstrates amazing resilience and determination in various aspects of life. She not only wins numerous competitions but also managed to overcome a temporary sun allergy, which is a vivid example of her strength of spirit.
In addition, Shakhnaze sets high standards in sports as well: she actively plays table tennis and shows excellent results, taking 3rd place. This highlights her well-rounded development and constant drive for new achievements and victories, whether on stage, in her teaching, or on the sports field.