My World: Fusion pianist Malika Omar

I have always wanted to be a performer.
My family loves music, but aside from my father trying his hand at the drums, no one in my immediate or extended family has delved into the music field professionally.

My love affair with the piano began when I was a toddler.
[My parents tell me] that at the age of three, I used to pretend I was performing on a stage after listening to Richard Clayderman records in my dad's collection. I remember loving the sounds the instrument produced: the higher notes reminded me of raindrops or twinkling stars. As I advanced in the study of music and of the instrument I came to realise just how diverse the piano is. It doesn't discriminate between genres: you can perform jazz, blues... even rock and trance!

I will never forget my first concert.
When I was just 14 I was asked to perform at the launch of a poetry book by a well-known and respected figure in Cape Town, where I'm from. It was nerve-racking, but I found that playing the piano made me very happy. Since then it has become an extension of me and an outlet for my emotions and dreams.

Music is a part of me.
I cannot even do the dishes without having music on. It's an integral part of my life and once I start playing I am transported to a wonderful place where there's only joy. I admire many artists. I love artists who push the boundaries between genres such as Vanessa-Mae and string quartet Bond.

My childhood years in Cape Town were busy.
I come from a huge and close-knit family in Cape Town; on my mother's side alone I have about 23 cousins! It was difficult moving away from them all when my family moved to Johannesburg, which is a lot like Dubai; very fast-paced. It was a good thing, as it made the move to Dubai a lot easier. Our beautiful Middle-Eastern haven is filled with people who love music and culture.

I still get nervous playing in front of an audience.
However, instead of thinking of it as crippling, I believe it keeps me grounded and focused to perform as best as possible. Someone told me: ‘I don't think you know just how much your music warms people's souls', and that was the most humbling compliment I've received.

Music heals and regenerates.
Music is used extensively as therapy to alleviate pain, manage stress or promote physical rehabilitation. I'm currently researching music therapy for children with autism or other special needs. Aside from using music as therapy, I'd like to use my music as awareness for a cause - a reason I'm recording a single called New Hope (in support of the Palestine Children's Relief Fund and children in need).

Believe in yourself and your dreams.
That's my advice to youngsters looking to have a career in music. Reach out and forge your own relationships with people in the industry and take their criticism and advice constructively. Don't ever be discouraged! And remember to be an honest, good and kind person, because good things happen to good people!

I have worked hard to realise my goals and sometimes it means not having time to do other things. I do wish I had more time to do more for children in need, but I'm working on that. It's also frustrating when things don't work out. But when one door closes, another opens. I'd love to do a more dance-oriented album next, which is hilarious as I don't think I'm terribly cool, but I'm going to do it anyway!

Quick Questions

What was your first album?

Monsoon Dew: I was so proud that I did everything myself.

Any original compositions?

All tracks on new album Sand Star and also Himalayan Jazz (a track on Monsoon Dew), which is a culmination of my profound interest in Nepal.

Where's your favourite place to perform?

Anywhere where there's a good vibe and people who enjoy music.

What is your dream?

The ultimate would be performing at the Royal Albert Hall, backed by an orchestra, in order to raise funds for my own NGO.