National Chamber Orchestra in Armenia. She stated that the reason she was able to focus on her ability at such a young age was because "I was patient. Not many are patient when they are five years old." Even during times of political and economical strife in her country, Marie persisted to practice the piano, even when heat and lack of light would otherwise pose a significant drawback. She persevered, practicing with gloves and by candlelight. Her dedication to her music superseding any obstacle. She admitted, "God has given me this gift."

Upon arriving in the United States in 1995, she met the prestigious pianist and instructor Alexander Fiorilloa, a professor at Temple University in Philadelphia, and she was invited to study with him. Marie, who has only been speaking the English language for three years, eloquently recapitulated her passion for music in these articulate words, "(My passion) is something you cannot say in words. It is an emotional satisfaction. Music is something you cannot see. You cannot take it with your hands. You cannot smell it. It is a spiritual state."

Natural talent and hard work have given rise to this extra-ordinary talent. Marie says that she spends up to six hours a day practicing and she attends Masters classes which help her perfect her art. Now represented by Ardani Artists in New York City, Ms. Nazar will no doubt become a much sought after talent. A true musician, she is the risk taker, the lover of music, the devoted, the patient, the articulate Marie Nazar. She can surely reach for any goal that her hands can touch. As my 12 year old sister, Victoria said, "Marie Nazar gives me hope that I can reach my goals whenever I want because she made her dreams a reality at such a young age." For all of the future musicians and dreamers out there, cherish the people who can be considered absolute talents. Let Marie Nazarís lead of excellence inspire you to be well on your way to reaching your dreams, and watch out for this rising star!