A MUSIC teacher who fled the Russian invasion of Ukraine before settling in Somerset is appealing for help from her new community.

Maryna Kalachova fled her native country three years ago after the brutal invasion by Russian forces.

She settled in Somerset, alone, and decided to pursue her chosen profession in which she has 30 years’ experience – teaching piano.

“Three years ago, I was forced to flee the war that destroyed my home and the life I had built,” she said.

“I arrived in Taunton alone, in a new country and a new language, and had to start again from zero — rebuilding not only my career, but my life itself, through music.

“Over the past two years, I have worked very hard to rebuild my piano teaching business from the ground up.

“Today, I teach around 30 students, both children and adults. At the moment, six of my students are preparing for ABRSM exams, which requires a high-quality and reliable instrument.”

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However, she said the digital piano she uses for teaching recently broke down, beyond repair.

“Because I teach in a residential building, I cannot use an acoustic piano, which makes a good digital piano essential for my work and my students’ progress,” she went on.

And she needs to raise £1,300 to buy a new digital piano – and to keep supporting her students and teaching more people.

“I am hoping to raise £1,300 to purchase a suitable instrument so I can continue teaching, support my students, and keep building the small business I have worked so hard to create,” Maryna added.

“Any contribution, no matter how small, will make a real difference. If you are unable to donate, simply sharing this page would mean the world to me.

“Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kindness, support, and belief in new beginnings.”

For more information – and to make a donation to Maryna’s appeal – visit gofundme.com/f/from-war-to-music-a-piano-teacher-starting-again.