Meet Yasaman Seif | Cellist & Art Administrator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Yasaman Seif and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Yasaman, why did you pursue a creative career?
I didn’t grow up in an artistic family—at least not in the traditional sense. My parents weren’t professional artists, but they loved art deeply. Life, however, didn’t give them the chance to explore that passion, not even as a hobby.
Circumstances held them back, yet their quiet passion planted a seed in me. I think I inherited not their careers, but their artistic soul.
Art never felt like something I chose. It felt like something that found me before I knew who I was. While my siblings are also immersed in creativity—and my brother even pursued art as a career—for me, it was simply the only path that ever existed. I never seriously considered another field. I couldn’t picture myself in any other role. Art wasn’t just something I did; it was how I understood the world.
At first, my language was movement—ballet. Then it became sketches, lines, and shapes. That naturally led me to graphic design. Alongside that, music entered my life, quietly at first, then with more presence. So when it was time to choose a university major, the only two things that made sense were music and graphic design. I didn’t even think beyond them—they were already a part of me.
My path has flowed like a quiet stream, winding its way through painting, drawing, designing—until it found the still, deep lake of music. And in that merging, I grew.

Creating brings me joy. I’m not someone who thrives on routine. I’m a moody person—I don’t thrive on repetition. I need variety, new ideas, fresh moments—I need my days to feel different, alive, expressive. Creativity isn’t just a profession for me; it’s how I stay connected to the world and to myself. Without it, I feel lost
And it doesn’t have to be something grand. Even designing a flower vase for a friend, sketching a personal draft, or making a simple thank-you card fills me with joy. Art, in all its forms, gives me purpose. I didn’t just pursue an artistic career—art became the way I live.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My journey has always been rooted in art—just in different forms. I’ve moved between visual art and music, from studying graphic design to earning a Master’s in Cello Performance, and now working in music administration. Each transition was deeply challenging. I had to be strong through every shift, often fighting through anxiety, self-doubt, and tears. But I kept going. I had to.

I come from a culture rich in history and art—a place where perfection is expected, and excellence is non-negotiable. That kind of environment can build pressure, but it also shapes resilience. It teaches you to survive, to succeed, to keep going even when it hurts. In many ways, that intensity made me who I am. It pushed me forward, even when my mental health was struggling under the weight of expectations.

But something changed when I began studying music and working as a music administrator after graduation. I learned that success doesn’t mean perfection. It means showing up with what you have, doing your best, and continuing—even if it’s difficult, even if you’re afraid. I’ve learned that belief in yourself is the most powerful tool you can have. If you keep going, if you keep trying, the help and support you need will eventually find you.

What sets me apart is my multidisciplinary background, my cultural roots, and the emotional strength I’ve gained through each pivot in my career. My story isn’t clean or easy, but it’s real. I want the world to know that success is not about being perfect—it’s about being brave enough to keep going.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend came to visit, I’d want them to feel like home and experience all the things that bring me joy. I’d start by making my place warm, cozy, and welcoming. I’d cook my signature main dish (Fesenjān, a sweet and sour Iranian stew) and dessert to share a piece of my personality and lifestyle, because I love creating a beautiful reception for my guests. We’d spend hours talking and laughing, reconnecting in a comfortable and heartfelt way. Since I love deep, meaningful conversations, I’d take them to one of my favorite cafés or restaurants—places with an artistic vibe and a fresh, calming environment where we could enjoy great coffee, drinks, and food while talking about life. One of the highlights of the week would definitely be attending a spa and a live performance—whether it’s a musical, a concert, or even a meaningful film at the cinema—because I’m truly moved by the energy and emotion of the performing arts. And if they enjoy shopping as much as I do, we’d dedicate a day to exploring some of my favorite spots, searching for unique pieces or just enjoying the fun of trying things on and being in the moment together.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
In every journey, there are people who leave a mark—through their knowledge, support, encouragement, or simply a kind word at the right time. Of course, family is always a part of that foundation. But when I think about those who truly stood beside me through the hardest moments—the ones who saw into my heart even when I couldn’t find the words to speak—I think of three very special people.

First, my husband.
Before he was my partner in life, he was my friend and colleague. And through it all, he’s worn many hats—each one playing a vital role in my journey. As a fellow musician and composer, he’s offered me valuable guidance and creative insight. As a friend, he’s stood beside me during our toughest times—crying with me, worrying with me, and never letting go. And as my life partner, he’s been a quiet teacher, helping me grow with patience and love. He has been more than a mentor; he’s been my anchor and inspiration.

Second, Dr. Tess.
She was my cello professor, yes—but to me, she was also a therapist of the soul. Our lessons felt more like therapy sessions, where music became a language of healing. With her, I learned to speak through my instrument—to express what I couldn’t always say aloud. She taught me that first we need feeling good about ourself and feel deeply and be friend internally with ourself, that music can becomes our voice. In this way, we can truly connect with our audience. She could understand what I was feeling just by looking into my eyes. Through her, I discovered a new, deeper way of living and learning music.

And third, Mrs. Geib.
She believed in me when she had every reason not to—when I was still a stranger from another continent. Her trust and faith were unlike anything I had experienced before. She saw potential in me and gave me a chance, and that belief gave me courage. Her support reminded me that sometimes, all it takes is one person to open a door that can change everything.

These people didn’t just support me—they shaped me. And to them, I owe a part of everything I’ve become.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasaman__seif/?igsh=cGQ2NWViaWI2aHI0&utm_source=qr#

Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/yasamanseif-music

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1FjEdExTN4/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Other: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3EMaYvNz4A4BDefGvA2szx?si=fEKqRIKHSNOZLmXCEnVTQQ