MARINA SWALES was born and raised in Siberia Russia and has been playing piano since the age of seven.  Graduating from the College of Music and State Conservatoire with degrees in solo, chamber, accompaniment and pedagogy she has continued to work in all mediums since 1980.  Through various contracts and tours she has performed in France, Germany, Holland, Canada, the Phillipines, Mexico and the United States.  Moving to Toronto, Canada in 2001 she established a dynamic teaching career through which several of her students have won awards and competitions at the highest levels.  Relocating to Northern California in 2007, she continues to follow her passions of teaching, accompanying and performing.