Biography

On the 4th of July 2025, I walked across RCM’s stage in front of my friends, teachers, and family as I graduated with a master’s in performance. I would be lying if I said this was not daunting, but luckily, I am blessed to be surrounded by loved ones who constantly remind me that the unknown is exciting, and the thrill of it all is worth living for. I am immensely grateful for the invaluable experiences I have gained along the way, all of which taught me that there is more to life than seeking perfection.

Throughout my 6 years of studying at the RCM, I have been very fortunate to find a supportive community that continuously provokes growth. My professor, Ani Schnarch, never ceases to inspire me with her anecdotes as she patiently guides me to become the musician I am today. The most memorable moments always end up being those shared with friends, whether it be on stage performing or outside the work setting over coffee (or pints)! It is in this conservatoire that strangers became colleagues, and friends turned into family. This camaraderie is one of the reasons I do what I do, because nothing brings me more joy than sharing moments with others, striving to be vulnerable and present together.

When I first left Indonesia in 2019, I felt a similar nervousness to the one I feel right now. As the eldest granddaughter, I was the first to leave home and pursue something that was considered fairly niche. Thankfully, my parents were fully committed to the wild idea of sending their only daughter overseas to study the violin, and my teachers back home were equally supportive. I believe that it was due to sheer willpower and their confidence in me that I managed to take my first steps into the unknown, soon making London my second home.

Who knew back then that little Natasha, who under her mother’s guidance at 3 years old on the piano, would be interested in the violin at the age of 5, and grow to love it so much that she would eventually graduate with a bachelor’s, a master’s, and then continue to be part of the Sinfonia Smith Square family? I guess now would be a good time to say, “Look Mom, look Dad, I made it.” Here’s to the end of an era, and new beginnings!