Valentina Romanova-Chyskyyray was born in the village of Mindagai, Churapchinsky District, Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), surrounded by nature and a rich musical and storytelling culture. She is a graduate of Republican Сreative Workshop of National Art of Yakutsk State University n.a. M.K. Ammosov. In 1996, Valentina became a soloist of the State Variete Theater and soon gained popularity as an ethnic singer. Her music employs a wide variety of traditional vocal techniques and draws upon oral epics, folk songs and animal imitation. She mixes jazz, ethno, Yakut folklore, and rock, and is distinguished by an almost psychedelic performance style and a range of three octaves. Valentina has given recitals and masterclasses in London and Helsinki. In 2007, she released her first album at the SOAS University of London. In 2008, she recorded two pieces that were included in the Bril Brothers’ album of jazz music. Valentina Romanova is the founder of her own vocal school. Author of the one-woman show “Kotobun”. Scarecrow is Valentina’s film debut.
The Asia Pacific Screen Academy expresses its respect for and acknowledgement of the South East Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. We pay our respects to the Traditional Owners of country, including the custodial communities on whose land works are created and celebrated by the Asia Pacific Screen Awards. We acknowledge the continuing connection to land, waters and communities. We also pay our respects to Elders, past and present. We recognise the integral role Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and First Nations peoples continue to play in storytelling and celebration spaces.
