Abylay Mustafin is a unique name in the modern youth community of Kazakhstan. A graduate of the Roza Baglanova Music School and a student of School-Gymnasium No. 2 in the city of Astana, he breaks stereotypes that a person cannot be equally successful in completely polar spheres. In his arsenal are the title of Grand Champion of the Golden Time Talent international competition in London, the highest awards of the world olympiads in mental arithmetic in Germany and Turkey, as well as gold medals of prestigious sports competitions "Zhuldizai" in goalball and togyz kumalak. How does the young genius manage to combine fine art, the dry precision of numbers, and tough sports struggle, while remaining a deep and humble person? Abylay spoke sincerely about this in our interview.
Abylay, tell us, where did your journey begin? What was the very impulse that led you to the piano, and do you remember your first meeting with the instrument?
My journey began back in childhood. I have always had a very fine ear for music, I remembered sounds well and distinguished even small shades. When I first touched the piano, I liked that through music you can convey feelings without words. Gradually, music became an important part of my life.
How did the years of study at the Roza Baglanova School shape your approach to art, and who among your mentors had the strongest influence on you?
Studying at the Roza Baglanova School influenced me very strongly. There I was taught not only technique, but also respect for art, discipline, and hard work. A big role was played by my teachers Babkova Olesya Ivanovna, music teacher, and typhlopedagogue Sagimbaeva Saule Lyabievna, who always supported me and helped me believe in myself.
Victory at the Golden Time Talent in London and the title of Grand Champion is a world level. What feelings did you experience when you realized that your mastery was recognized by the jury in Great Britain?
When I became the Grand Champion in London, at first I didn’t even believe it. For me, these were very strong emotions — joy, excitement, and gratitude. It was nice to realize that my work was appreciated at the international level.
The piano requires colossal dedication. Is there a favorite piece you have right now that most accurately reflects your inner world?
I have pieces that are especially close to me in mood. Through music, I can express my experiences, thoughts, and inner state. Most of all I like pieces where there is depth, emotions, and sincerity.
You became the Grand Champion of the world olympiads in mental arithmetic. Does mathematical precision and discipline of mind help in music lessons, or are these completely different worlds for you?
I think mental arithmetic and music are in many ways similar. In both, you need attention, concentration, memory, and constant training. Mathematics helps me think faster and gather myself better during performances.
Mental arithmetic requires an instant reaction. Do you have a secret of how to tune in to solving the most difficult tasks under the stress of competition?
Before competitions, I try to stay calm and not think about the fear of making a mistake. What helps me is a focus on the result, the support of loved ones, and the habit of training a lot. When you are confident in your preparation, it becomes easier to cope with stress.
Your victories in goalball and togyz kumalak at the "Zhuldizai" competitions are impressive. What does sports mean to you — is it a way to switch off or another platform for tempering character?
For me, sports is not only physical activity, but also character development. Goalball and togyz kumalak taught me endurance, patience, and the ability to fight to the end. Sports helps to switch off and become stronger.
Music, sports, mathematics, studying at the gymnasium... How do you manage to find a balance and maintain the highest result in each of these areas?
Of course, combining everything is not easy. But routine, discipline, and the support of my family help me. I try to allocate time correctly and work as seriously as possible in every matter.
In your biography, respect for teachers occupies a special place. What is the most important advice you received from your mentors that helps you in life?
The most important advice I received from my mentors is:
never stop at what has been achieved and always continue to learn.
This advice helps me not to be afraid of difficulties and to move forward.
What qualities of your character — hard work, curiosity, or the will to win — do you consider decisive in achieving such success?
I think hard work and perseverance play the main role. Talent is important, but without constant work, it is impossible to achieve great results. It is also important to believe in yourself and not give up after failures.
Your journey inspires thousands of people. What main difficulties did you face, and what would you advise peers who are afraid to go after their dream?
There were difficulties, just like any person has. Sometimes it was hard, sometimes something didn’t work out right away. But it is difficulties that make us stronger. To those who are afraid to go after their dream, I would advise not to doubt themselves and to take at least a small step forward every day.
You have already become a "person of the world." What peaks do you plan to conquer in the coming years, and is there a project you dream about the most?
Now I want to develop further in music, participate in international competitions, and represent Kazakhstan on the world stage. I want people to feel inspiration and faith in their capabilities through my creativity.
What does success mean to you today?
For me, success is not only awards and victories.
Real success is when you grow as a person, overcome yourself, and realize that your work brings benefits and inspires other people.
The story of Abylay Mustafin is a powerful manifesto that the true limits of possibilities exist only in our imagination. Intellectual triumphs in Germany, sports gold in his homeland, and recognition in London have proven: versatility is born where colossal work combines with a sincere belief in one's strength and deep respect for those who lead you by the hand to knowledge. Today, Abylay does not just represent Kazakhstan on the world stage — he creates a new standard of a young leader capable of changing the world around him through art, intellect, and an unbending will.
P.S. Editor's Note:
While this article was being prepared for publication, Abylay’s collection of achievements was enriched by another triumphant victory. On June 27, 2026, he took part in the international grand final of the World Talent Awards 2026 at the Royal Academy of Music in London. Abylay not only won a decisive 1st place, but also earned the high honor of officially opening this prestigious event. Congratulations to the young maestro on conquering another world peak!
