Izara Thien Nga, whose real name is Nguyen Hoang Thien Nga, has captivated audiences by performing covers of both domestic and international lyrical and contemporary songs while playing various instruments.

Her dynamic, youthful performance style and diverse musical genres have garnered millions of views for many of Izara's YouTube videos. She also performs at various events and charity programs, most recently singing for inmates during Tet Binh Ngo alongside singer Dam Vinh Hung.

"She not only plays multiple instruments but also excels in foreign languages, demonstrating great enthusiasm every time she takes the stage", singer Dam Vinh Hung observed. "I believe Izara possesses the qualities to become a future star if she continues to refine her skills."

With over 10 years of musical training and a clear ambition for a professional career, 16-year-old Izara Thien Nga launched her debut EP, featuring six original compositions, on the evening of 20/3 in TP HCM. She expressed her desire to collaborate with a music production team to establish a distinct image and direction. "I consider music a passion, not merely a hobby", Thien Nga stated.

Born into a business-oriented family with no artistic background, Izara Thien Nga remained non-verbal at four years old, according to her mother, Dai Trang. The concern over her developmental delay weighed heavily on her mother, as numerous examinations and treatments proved ineffective. In a bid to connect with their child, the family introduced Izara Thien Nga to music. She frequently watched English cartoon channels and listened to EDM and international rock bands.

After a period of musical exposure via a tablet screen, the then four-year-old girl began to utter her first words. "Once she became receptive to language, we encouraged her to learn French and Chinese", her mother explained. "From a child who struggled to speak, Thien Nga gradually developed strong communication skills, bringing joy to our entire family as we witnessed her transformation."

At seven, her mother took Izara to perform at business association events, where she sang songs in Vietnamese, English, and French. Her public profile grew significantly after she competed in The Voice Kids and won Hay Nghe Toi Hat Nhi 2020. "A few years ago, her performance fee was around 2 million dong, and it has since increased substantially", her mother noted.

Izara Thien Nga was born in 2009 in TP HCM. Photo: Provided by character

Izara Thien Nga attributes her initial success to a blend of personal effort and unwavering family support. Previously, she lacked the maturity to discern suitable songs or cultivate her passion effectively, often singing or learning instruments instinctively. Her mother, for instance, set aside her business to fully dedicate her time to fostering her daughter's interests. "From guiding my song selections to meticulously overseeing every lesson and music project, my parents have consistently been my greatest source of support", Izara Thien Nga affirmed.

Her musical path transcends mere talent; it is the culmination of systematic training. Thien Nga proficiently plays five instruments: drums, piano, violin, guitar, and organ. Despite her mother's reservations about the violin's demanding nature, Thien Nga pursued it. Consequently, she achieved top marks in the violin major at the TP HCM Conservatory of Music after approximately one year of dedicated practice, and is now in her seventh year of studies there.

The singer's mastery of musical notes is synonymous with discipline. The 16-year-old maintains a rigorous schedule from morning until late evening, balancing academic studies with specialized training at the Conservatory. Some days require her to study with two or three private instructors concurrently to meet her demanding pace.

Izara Thien Nga in a photo shoot promoting her debut EP. Photo: Provided by character

A significant milestone in Izara's singing career is the release of her self-titled debut EP. She views this not merely as a musical product, but as a "coming-of-age ceremony", signifying her transition from a cover artist to one with a distinct personal imprint. For this project, Thien Nga chose to explore the pop rnb genre.

She has chosen a path that incorporates experimental sound design and modern musical structures. She acknowledges this as a risky endeavor, uncertain whether audiences will readily embrace her unique musical style. To complete the EP, Thien Nga sought the guidance and collaboration of music producer 2pillz.

Izara is currently pursuing further studies in vocal performance and songwriting, aspiring to become a producer in addition to a singer. She believes that engaging in music production provides a clearer understanding of song structure and melodic connections.

"I aim to create a product that prioritizes musical atmosphere and my authentic emotions, rather than merely showcasing vocal prowess", she said.

Hoang Dung