Interview with Svitlana Chumak

Music brings people together—values bring cultures together.

Question:

Ms. Chumak, you have been living and working between Europe and the United Arab Emirates for many years. What does the concept of values mean to you personally?

Response from Svitlana Chumak:

For me, values are the foundation of human coexistence. Respect, honesty, humanity, and mutual respect are concepts that are understood all over the world—regardless of language, religion, or background. It is precisely through music that I have learned that people often speak the same emotional language, even when they cannot understand each other verbally.

Question:

What role does culture play in this?

Answer:

Culture brings people together. Music, art, and language build bridges between people. When I play the piano, I often see how people from all walks of life suddenly feel a shared connection. That is something very powerful. Culture can ease tensions and foster understanding. Especially today, the world needs more dialogue and less division.

Question:

You are from Ukraine and have worked internationally. Has that experience shaped you?

Answer:

Very much so, in fact. I have seen firsthand how important peace, stability, and social cohesion are. Music isn’t just entertainment—it can offer comfort, give hope, and bring people together. That’s why I believe artists also have a social responsibility.

Question:

What does “togetherness” mean to you?

Answer:

Working together means listening. Many conflicts arise because people only react anymore, but no longer really listen. A good concert only works when everyone pays attention to one another—just like a society. Every person has their own voice, but harmony only comes about through mutual respect.

Personal Life and Relationships

Question:

You come across as very disciplined and professional. How important is your personal life to you as a way to maintain a balance?

Answer:

Very important. People who work a lot or perform on stage, in particular, also need peace, trust, and genuine closeness. Music is an emotional profession. That’s why a stable personal life is something very valuable.

Question:

What does a happy relationship mean to you?

Answer:

A good relationship is based on honesty, loyalty, and mutual respect. Two people need to support each other, not work against each other. It’s also important to give each other space while still being there for one another.

Question:

Many people today talk about superficiality and the fast pace of relationships. What are your thoughts on this?

Answer:

I believe that genuine feelings take time. Trust isn’t built in just a few days. Many people are afraid to truly open up because they’ve been disappointed in the past. But without trust, true intimacy can’t develop.

Question:

What is particularly important to you in a partner?

Answer:

Character. A person may be successful or intelligent—but what really matters is how they treat others. To me, attentiveness, respect, reliability, and a sense of humor are more important than material things.

Question:

What role do shared values play in a relationship?

Answer:

A very big role. When two people share similar views on family, respect, the future, and humanity, it creates stability. Without shared values, a relationship becomes difficult in the long run.

Question:

What values would you like to instill in young people?

Answer:

Success alone is not enough. Character, discipline, respect, and compassion are what matter. Young people should learn that true strength lies not in volume, but in attitude. Culture and music can help convey these values.

Question:

Is there anything you’ve learned from your personal life experience?

Answer:

Yes. That you shouldn’t judge people by their words alone, but by their actions. And that true strength often lies in calmness, patience, and loyalty.

Question:

What does love mean to you personally?

Answer:

Love means trust, a sense of security, and mutual support. It’s about walking through life together and supporting each other through difficult times.

Question:

What are your hopes for the future of Europe and the Arab world?

Answer:

More cultural exchange, more openness, and more joint projects. Europe and the Emirates can learn from each other. Music and culture offer a wonderful opportunity to bring people together and build mutual trust.

Ms. Chumak,

Thank you very much for the candid conversation.

Thank you very much.

Some values never change—respect, trust, and humanity will always be important.

Programs

Music for special moments.

Whether it’s a gala evening, a luxury lounge, a charity concert, a corporate event, or a private gathering—Svitlana Chumak curates musical performances with elegance, experience, and international flair.