Meet Olga Prepis | Musician & Songwriter

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

Hi Olga, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
As a musician, especially early on, I thought constantly working; writing, recording, networking was the only way to “make it.” During my undergrad at Berklee, I poured myself into every opportunity: I was juggling gigs, sessions, school, and multiple leadership roles like club president and events manager. I loved being involved, but I didn’t realize I was burning out. I was saying yes to everything, constantly switching gears, and trying to prove I could do it all until I felt emotionally and creatively drained.

That turning point really reshaped how I think about balance. I used to believe that constant hustle was necessary for growth in the industry, but I’ve learned that sustainability matters more than speed. Burnout disconnected me from the joy that made me pursue music in the first place, and it pushed me to redefine success.

Now, I treat balance as an essential part of longevity, creatively and professionally. I protect time for rest, reflection, and just being a person, not only a musician. That might mean taking a walk around my neighborhood without headphones or saying no to projects that don’t align with my values. Ironically, when I gave myself space to recover, my creativity came back stronger. My writing felt more honest, and my work in the music business space became more intentional.

I’ve come to see that taking care of myself isn’t in conflict with ambition, it’s what sustains it. Some of my best ideas come when I’m not actively “working,” and I’ve learned that real inspiration often lives in stillness. Today, I create and lead from a place of alignment, not exhaustion.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is deeply shaped by the intersection of cultures, sounds, and stories. Born to Cypriot immigrant parents, music has always been integral to my life. From a young age, I was immersed in classical masterpieces at home, which sparked my musical ear. My formal training began with piano at just four years old, and by seven, we moved to Cyprus, where I was exposed to the country’s rich musical traditions and received formal training. This foundation in classical and contemporary music, alongside my experience in K-pop and other genres, has allowed me to merge my Mediterranean roots with global influences.

As a vocalist, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist, I strive to craft music that feels both personal and expansive. My style blends alternative pop, electronic, and indie-soul, with sophisticated harmonies and layered vocals serving as key elements of my identity. Whether I’m working as a topliner or crafting my solo work, I aim to create music that resonates deeply with people, telling stories that transcend borders.

What sets me apart is my versatility, not just as an artist, but as a creator who brings a unique perspective to every project. I’ve had the privilege of working with talented industry professionals, collaborating with people from all over the world, and constantly pushing myself to explore new genres and sounds. My time at Berklee and now at NYU has further shaped my understanding of the industry and my artistry, enabling me to balance creative freedom with the business side of music.

The road to where I am today hasn’t always been easy, and I’ve faced challenges – like burnout- along the way. But each challenge taught me valuable lessons about resilience, balance, and the importance of staying true to my vision. I’ve learned that success isn’t just about pushing yourself nonstop; it’s about working with intention and taking care of your mental and creative health. Overcoming these obstacles has only strengthened my drive and deepened my commitment to creating music that connects and inspires.

What I want the world to know is that my music is more than just sound, it’s a reflection of who I am, where I come from, and the stories I want to tell. I believe in creating music that’s authentic and that speaks to universal experiences, and I’m excited to continue pushing boundaries while staying true to my roots.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting, here’s how I’d show them a great time in NYC and Nicosia, Cyprus, both of which I call home:

In NYC:
We’d start the day with breakfast at Egg Shop in SoHo (can’t go wrong with their eggs benedict). Then, we’d take a walk through Central Park to get a little nature in the city, followed by lunch at Joe’s Pizza, because you have to have NYC pizza. In the afternoon, we’d hit up the Metropolitan Museum of Art or check out a cool exhibit at MoMA. After that, we’d grab drinks at The Dead Rabbit, a classic NYC cocktail bar. And for the evening, we’d head to Brooklyn to catch a rooftop view of the skyline, then end the night with some live music in Williamsburg.

In Nicosia, Cyprus:
We’d start by exploring Ledras Street, a pedestrian street with tons of cafes and shops. A visit to the Cyprus Museum would give us a taste of the rich culture, followed by a big spread of Cypriot meze at a local taverna. Then, for some relaxation, we’d make our way to Protaras for a beach day with clear water and stunning views.

NYC’s got that hustle and excitement, while Nicosia offers a more laid-back vibe with tons of history. Both cities are home in their own way, and I’d love to show my friend how special each place is!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, I have to thank my family and friends, who have always supported me unconditionally. Their belief in me, especially during challenging times, has been my constant source of strength and motivation. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

I’d also like to shout out my high school music teacher, who first sparked my passion for music and helped me discover my potential as a performer and leader. They were a guiding light during my formative years and made me realize that music could be more than just a hobby; it could be a career.

I’m incredibly grateful to my piano and vocal teachers as well. They both pushed me to refine my skills and encouraged me to embrace my unique voice, which has had a lasting impact on my artistic development.

Finally, I’d be remiss if I didn’t shout out the Berklee community, which has shaped so much of my professional and personal growth. The people I met there, whether professors, peers, or mentors, taught me the importance of collaboration, creativity, and resilience. They helped me find my balance as both a musician and a student, and I’m lucky to have been surrounded by such a talented and supportive community.

Website: https://www.olgaprepis.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/olgaprepis/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olga-prepis/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@olga_prepis