Born in Moscow, Russia
- I have been going to Classical music concerts since before I was born: my Mom is an orchestral violinist; my brother is a concert pianist.
- I went to music school in Moscow studying Classical music theory and performance - played piano for 5+ years, clarinet for 3+ years

Moved to US in '90.
- Played clarinet for 2 more years, saxophones for 2+ years.
- Immediately dove into exploration of all music styles.
- Continued to study music theory and performance, adding rock and jazz to my music style repertoire.
- Began studying visual arts.

Went to High School in San Francisco, CA
- Played saxophones for 4 more years as part of school jazz band and rock band.
- Was Stage Manager for High School's theater plays.
- Interned at a Graphic Design Firm in San Francisco, working on promotional products and campaigns, learning the industry.

Got a Bachelors in Design at UC Davis, CA.
- Played saxophones for 2 more years, electric bass