We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ildar Kamalov. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Ildar below.

Alright, Ildar thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

In 2023, after almost a year of living abroad, I made the bold decision to return to Russia and begin preparing my application for one of the world’s top media composition programs — at Columbia College Chicago.

It had long been a dream of mine: to write music for film, video games, and other media, to be part of an international creative community, and to grow as a composer within the global entertainment industry.

At the time, my family and I were going through a difficult period — politically, emotionally, and creatively. The sense of artistic stagnation and personal uncertainty was overwhelming. But I knew I had to try.

I submitted my application. A few months later, I received an email: I had been accepted. I was overjoyed — but that joy quickly gave way to the harsh reality of logistics.

Due to the political situation, U.S. visas were no longer being issued in Russia. I had to look for other consulates abroad. One of the most accessible and fastest options at the time was Belgrade, Serbia. I scheduled my visa interview for late July, giving myself enough time to get to the U.S. by the start of the school year in late August.

But then — I was denied the visa.

I was devastated. My first thought was: That’s it. It’s over.

Still, I immediately reached out to the director of the composition program, who responded with incredible support. He told me: “I’m not giving up on you. You have to apply again.”

But there were no available appointments for months. It seemed impossible.

And then — a new, unexpected opportunity opened up. The U.S. embassy in Tel Aviv had just released a few new visa appointments due to heightened political tensions and fears of an imminent military conflict in the region.
It was a huge risk. Flights were being delayed and canceled. There was real danger of escalation. But I had no other choice — this was my only chance.

So I flew to Israel.

Luckily, during my stay in Tel Aviv, the situation remained calm. But just days before I arrived, locals told me that rocket fragments had been falling on the city. It could have gone very differently.

Thankfully, my second visa interview was successful. A few weeks later, I arrived in Chicago — ready to start this new chapter of my life.

That experience taught me that sometimes, when the path seems completely blocked, the only option is to keep moving forward. Even through fear. Even through chaos.

Because the dream is worth it.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m a Russian-born composer currently pursuing my MFA in Music Composition for the Screen at Columbia College Chicago. I work across genres and formats — from film and video games to contemporary dance and theatre — offering a full creative range from concept to final mix.

My musical journey began in childhood with violin and classical guitar, followed by songwriting and performing in a rock band. At the age of 27, I formally entered the conservatory to study composition. By that time, I had already founded a music school and built a career — but composition was the one thing that gave true meaning to my life.

My deep love for cinema and storytelling naturally drew me to film scoring. What captivated me most was the freedom to blend genres — something I felt was missing in traditional academic music. I see film and game music as an opportunity to create hybrid, emotionally rich sonic narratives.

One of my most formative experiences has been collaborating with a contemporary chamber ballet company. This partnership gave me invaluable hands-on experience managing every stage of the music production process: composing, recording, sound design, mixing — and even live performance. I regularly work across a broad stylistic range, from experimental and classical to folk and electronic dance music.

Here in the U.S., I’m combining my real-world experience with world-class mentorship from Columbia College faculty. I approach each project as a storyteller, working closely with directors and choreographers to understand their vision and enhance the emotional arc through music.

What I offer is more than music — it’s a complete creative partnership. I’m a composer who listens deeply, adapts quickly, and brings both technical precision and artistic empathy to every collaboration. Whether you need a cinematic score, an interactive soundtrack, or a choreographic sound world — I’m here to help bring your story to life.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

I used to believe that music had to be complex, intricate, and technically perfect to have real value.

Under the influence of an academic environment, I was afraid of writing something simple.

I thought that if a listener could understand what was happening right away, it meant I hadn’t done enough.
But in real life, once I started working with directors and choreographers, I realized that simplicity is not a weakness — it’s a strength.

Music should serve the story. It’s not about impressing — it’s about connecting.
Now I try to write music that breathes — music that supports rather than competes.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

I believe that the work you do in life should reflect who you truly are.
If someone is naturally introspective, poetic, and empathetic, then a high-stakes career like stock trading might not align with their temperament — not because it’s a “lesser” path, but because it simply demands a different kind of energy.

But when you take a broader view, almost any profession can be creative.
The real question is: What kind of work resonates with your inner world?
That, to me, is what defines a creative life — not the title on your business card, but the degree to which your daily work reflects your true nature.

When your craft aligns with who you are, you no longer have to invent yourself or play a role. You simply live, breathe, and create — and that brings a deep sense of calm and strength, especially during uncertain times.

I don’t think of happiness as a final destination — it’s something that arises naturally when you’re on the right path, when you feel that your work has meaning and integrity.

Living in alignment with your creative nature often takes courage.
It’s much easier to follow expectations than to listen inward. But once you do, you begin to feel a kind of freedom that no external success can replace.

And that, to me, is the real reward of having a creative profession:
Not just making beautiful things — but living a life that feels honest, whole, and fully your own.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.ildarkamalov.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ildarkamalovcomposer/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IldarKamalovComposer

Image Credits

Ramis Nazmiev