Born and raised in Ukraine, Alla graduated from Kyiv State University with a degree in Mechanics and Mathematics and went on to pursue a rewarding career in the sphere of education. She recently acted as an advisory board member of the Benjamin Britten International Violin Competition London and as a co-founder and, since 2003, director of the Kyiv Festival.

A music school graduate and mother of two, her interests range from tennis and skiing to gardening. She enjoys the challenge of learning new languages and has a keen eye for all things creative.