Life & Work with Platinum Pianist Petra Persolja of Hollywood

Today we’d like to introduce you to Platinum Pianist Petra Persolja.

Hi Platinum Pianist, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’m originally from Slovenia—a small country of just 2 million people—where professional piano opportunities weren’t exactly growing on trees. I fell in love with the piano as a child, drawn to its ability to express what words often couldn’t. But I realized early on that if I wanted to pursue music seriously, I’d need to get either very creative or very mobile.

So when a scholarship to study in the U.S. came my way, I didn’t think twice—I packed my bags faster than you can say Chopin. That leap took me from the East Coast to Hawaii (yes, really—even a classical pianist can use a little aloha), and ultimately to the West Coast, where I earned my Doctorate in Piano Performance and now live with my husband and daughter.

After years of chasing perfection in the classical world, I decided to break free from the black-tie traditions and start performing where the joy was more immediate and the connections more personal—weddings, private events, anywhere people actually smiled when I played. It was the best kind of plot twist: still playing the piano, just with a little more freedom, flair, and occasionally, a view of a cake table.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Life isn’t exactly glamorous when you’re a 21-year-old woman living in a foreign country, with your nearest family member a 15-hour flight (and several emotional breakdowns) away. As an international student with no access to loans, I had to rely on determination, creativity, and outpace the competition for every scholarship and assistantship I could find—and practice like my future depended on it, because, quite simply, it did. I was earning $12K a year as a teaching assistant—which still blows my mind that I managed to survive on! It took grit, hustle, and some very creative budgeting (read: free campus events with snacks) just to stay afloat. But through it all, one thing kept me going: the music.

During my doctoral studies, I had the incredible opportunity to perform regularly at the Rosewood Miramar in Santa Barbara. This wasn’t just another gig—it was a revelation. I discovered how much I loved playing in beautiful, intimate spaces where people gathered to celebrate, relax, and connect. The setting was luxurious, yes—but more than that, it was alive with energy. I could feel the audience connecting to the music in a way that felt personal and immediate—something I hadn’t quite experienced in the traditional concert hall. It was the first time I realized that world-class musicianship doesn’t have to be confined to formal venues—it can thrive in everyday moments of joy.

Right after college, I threw myself into teaching. I loved my students and their families—they were wonderful, and seeing their progress felt deeply rewarding. But soon, I hit a wall. Teaching consumed all my time and energy, leaving little room to practice or perform. It felt like I was pouring my passion into everyone else’s music while my own voice slowly faded into silence. That’s when I realized I wasn’t meant to only nurture other people’s dreams—I had my own story to tell through music, and if I didn’t start playing it myself, no one else would.

Today, I perform almost exclusively for high-end events—intimate gatherings in private estates, prestigious Californian weddings, and iconic venues like the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach and the historic Palace Hotel in San Francisco. My music adds a refined touch that complements the elegance of each occasion, creating moments guests truly remember.

This summer, I’ll be playing prestigious weddings and private engagements across several states, including a special performance at the Bellagio in Las Vegas. While I’ve carved out a unique space in the world of luxury private performances, my roots remain in classical music. Performing at Carnegie Hall last year was a milestone that meant the world to me, and this September, I’m honored to take the stage at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia. It’s a balance I’ve come to truly appreciate—blending the elegance and precision of classical training with the vibrant, personal connection that comes from playing for people during some of the most meaningful moments of their lives.

So, was my path always smooth? Definitely not. But every challenge, every late night and long flight, has shaped who I am as an artist and as a person. And honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a private event pianist based in sunny Southern California, performing under the name The Platinum Pianist. I specialize in crafting unforgettable atmospheres for life’s most meaningful moments, whether it’s a walk down the aisle, a first dance, an intimate celebration, or a corporate event. My approach is thoughtful and personal, designed to make the entire process seamless and stress-free. The goal? To ensure every event not only runs smoothly but leaves a lasting impression that my clients and their guests will cherish for years to come.

What truly ignites my passion is the ability to adapt and personalize my music to fit the unique tastes and styles of each client. Whether they lean toward classic romantic ballads, contemporary hits, or something totally unexpected, I love crafting performances that reflect their individual personalities and stories. Every wedding is as unique as the couple themselves, and I thrive on the challenge of transforming a rock anthem or an EDM hit into a sweeping, heartfelt melody. This kind of musical alchemy allows me to capture each couple’s personality and love story in a way that’s completely unique and unforgettable. Recently, I’ve been focusing more on creating thoughtful arrangements and medleys, whether blending songs with similar styles, or crafting tributes to specific artists.

The year 2025 has been extraordinary. Beyond fulfilling my family’s dream of settling in sunny Southern California, I’ve been honored as a finalist for California Wedding Day’s Best Live Music, named a Top 10 Event Specialist by City & Beach Lifestyle, and was thrilled to receive the Tokyo Golden Classical Music Award. I’m excited to share my journey of passion, perseverance, and music with your readers, and hopefully, inspire a few hearts along the way.

Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
Most of my clients are looking for a personalized, high-end musical experience that elevates their event with elegance and intention. I collaborate closely with couples, planners, and brands who value a seamless, stress-free process. They trust me to curate every musical detail with care, professionalism, and a deep understanding of the atmosphere they want to create.

What I love most is building genuine relationships along the way. Whether it’s designing a custom medley for a ceremony, setting the mood during an intimate dinner, or surprising guests with a modern twist on a classic piece, I aim to make the experience feel effortless, personal, and completely unforgettable.

My services are ideal for those who appreciate the finer things—a premium experience where music doesn’t just fill the space, but defines it. It sets the tone, brings people together, and transforms a beautiful event into an unforgettable one.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.platinumpianist.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/platinumpianist
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@platinumpianist

Image Credits
Jack Ma at Overpower production.
Anastasia at Steff Production.