Bana Sulman is a Syrian-born pianist, composer, and multi-instrumentalist based in Innsbruck, Austria. With a background in both architecture and music, she creates emotionally rich, storytelling piano compositions that merge classical influences with modern sensibilities. She began her classical training at the age of twelve, later developing her own interpretation of rock and metal songs on the piano. In 2019, she began composing original works, leading to her debut multi-instrumental album, Seven Days.
Her latest release, A Journey Within, invites listeners into an introspective voyage divided into three chapters: Serenity, Reflection, and Insight. Through her work, Bana Sulman strives to connect deeply with others, using music as both expression and healing.
With A Journey Within out now, we took some time to hear from Bana Sulman. Read below to learn more about Bana Sulman, the story behind A Journey Within, and what’s to come.
Hi Bana Sulman! Let’s start with how did you get your artist name?
Thank you so much for having me! I go by my real name, Bana Sulman. My music is a personal extension of who I am, so it felt natural to stay true to that.
What city are you from, and where are you based now?
I’m originally from Latakia, a coastal city in Syria. Since 2021, I’ve been based in Innsbruck, Austria.
At what point in your life did you decide to pursue a career in music? How did you get started?
Music has always been my greatest passion, but in Syria, it wasn’t considered a practical career path. That’s why I studied architecture and worked in that field for several years, while keeping music as something that I did on the side. Eventually, I realized that I couldn’t ignore it anymore, music is where I truly belong. Releasing A Journey Within was the moment when everything crystallized because it was the first time that I expressed my story as a pianist with complete honesty.
How would you describe your sound to readers who may not be familiar with you?
Dreamy, emotional, and storytelling. My pieces aren’t background music, they are more like soundtracks, filled with layers and imagery. I try to turn every composition into a scene, charging it with emotions and fragments of my soul.
Do you have any hobbies outside of music? What do you do to stay creative?
Yes! I love languages! I speak four and plan to learn a fifth. To me, languages are like music, each with its own rhythm and melody. I also enjoy reading fiction, exploring physics, quantum theory, and philosophy, which fuel my imagination. And, walking in nature always inspires new musical ideas.
Who are some of your main musical influences?
Chopin, for his heartfelt emotion, and Tchaikovsky, for his overwhelming power, were my first inspirations. Later, as a rock and metal fan, I was influenced by Mariusz Duda of Riverside and his way of blending musical modes like Dorian and Mixolydian resonates deeply with me. The band, Shylmagoghnar, also shaped my musical taste with their atmospheric compositions.
What’s one of the proudest moments of your music career so far?
Releasing A Journey Within worldwide. It was the first time my inner world became visible to others. The project included not just the album, but also nearly 80 pages of sheet music and a storybook making it my proudest achievement so far.
What would you say are the greatest lessons that you’ve learned so far?
To trust my sensitivity instead of seeing it as a weakness. It is the quality that makes my music unique and allows me to connect deeply with others.
Now onto your release, A Journey Within. What inspired this album?
It was inspired by my personal journey after moving to Austria, facing the world as my authentic self, and finding solace in the Alps. Nature, silence, and self-reflection revealed memories of youth and transformation, leading to a path of self-acceptance and rebirth.
What is the overall theme of A Journey Within?
Self-discovery. The story follows someone seeking serenity in nature, reflecting on their past, and then gaining insight to embrace growth. It’s about transformation through reflection and reconciliation with oneself.
What was the creative process like when making A Journey Within?
It began with piano improvisations, which slowly evolved into chapters. The story wasn’t fully planned; it grew naturally as I was also evolving as a person.
How long did it take to complete A Journey Within?
Around three to four years, including composing, notating, recording, and polishing everything into a cohesive whole.
Is there a specific song on A Journey Within that speaks to you the most? If so, what is it called, and what is it about?
‘Dance With The Silver Glow.’ It may not be the most complex, but its Mixolydian melody carries magic, nostalgia, and playfulness. When I wrote it, I felt it came from the ether, as if I were simply the receiver.
What do you hope fans take away from A Journey Within and your music in general?
That they feel seen, understood, and reflected in the music. My hope is that it speaks to those who struggle to express themselves in words because music can say what language sometimes cannot.
What’s next for you? Are you working on any upcoming projects, or do you have any upcoming shows that we should be on the lookout for?
I’m preparing TikTok concerts, local performances, and new collaborations. I’m also working on a single to be released in the coming months, while continuing to grow and explore new directions.
Where can we follow you on social media?
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/banasulman/
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@banapiano
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1D8XF2S0o1Zc6xA7oyBqpB
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BanaPiano
• Website: https://banasulman.com/
Thanks for the great interview! I am grateful to have this chance to share more about myself and my music! ♥
Of course, thank you; wish you much continued success!
