Dr. Ilka Araújo, a luminary in the world of piano, pedagogy and music history — and a beloved professor of piano at Texas Wesleyan University — once harbored dreams of soaring among the stars. Yet, destiny had a different melody in store for this talented musician. 

Growing up in Brazil, Araújo initially followed in her father's footsteps, learning the guitar. However, a chance encounter with the piano ignited a lifelong passion. 

"I fell in love with the piano's rich literature and vast sonic palette," Araújo recalls. "It was a captivating instrument, played by many, and I was drawn to its allure." 

But the bright lights that shine upon her as she masterfully plays for an audience aren’t the lights she’d originally thought would twinkle around her in her professional career. Growing up, Araújo had also dreamt about becoming an astronaut.  

“I always wanted to be part of something bigger than myself, to contribute to humanity's understanding of the universe. As I delved into the world of piano, I discovered a universe of its own, one that required a different kind of precision, a different kind of intellect," she said. “Music, like space exploration, can transport us to distant worlds and inspire profound emotions." 

Despite her parents' aspirations for her to pursue medicine, Araújo's heart belonged to music. She earned her bachelor's degree in music from the Universidade Estadual do Ceará, all while balancing athletic prowess as a volleyball player. Her love for the sport shone through in her talents, being selected with other 23 women in her region to represent Brazil in the Junior Olympics at age 16. However, she didn’t make it to the finals when the region made cuts from 24 to 12 people. 

As her musical and athletic pursuits unfolded, so too did a growing desire to explore the world beyond Brazil. Araújo initially aspired to study in Germany. However, due to the Brazilian government's focus on domestic graduate music programs, she was unable to secure a scholarship. Despite being accepted into a Brazilian university, financial constraints hindered her ability to pursue advanced studies. 

Undeterred, Araújo's passion for music kept her motivated. She was determined to expand her musical horizons and sought out opportunities to learn from renowned musicians. She worked for opportunities to have lessons with Luiz de Moura Castro, a renowned Brazilian pianist, and watch his performances.  

“Wherever he was, I made sure I could travel there,” she laughed. “I worked hard to secure funding to travel to those places and make those connections.” 

As fate would have it, a pivotal moment arrived while she was working as an English translator at the Franz Liszt Music Festival in Rio de Janeiro. There, she met Boaz Sharon, a renowned piano professor at the University of Florida. Impressed by her talent and dedication, Sharon offered her a full scholarship to study at the university. 

“He told me I had a full ride to study in Florida,” she smiled. “I had never even considered moving to the United States.”  

After completing her studies in piano performance and pedagogy, Araújo was awarded a full scholarship to pursue a Ph.D. in musicology at the University of Florida with Dr. David Kushner. During her doctoral studies, she met her future husband at the university. Following their marriage, the couple relocated to Fort Worth, where her husband's career opportunities took them. 

Initially, Araújo had no intention of becoming a teacher. As a shy teenager, the thought of public speaking filled her with dread. However, her desire to share her knowledge and passion for music with others eventually led her to start offering private piano lessons. This new-found calling ultimately led her to Texas Wesleyan University, where she has since become a beloved professor. 

"I didn't expect to ever become a teacher," she admits, "but I wanted to share my knowledge with the next generation. We are just a small part of the world, so if I could share as much of what I know with students, I feel like I've done something meaningful." 

Araújo's impact extends far beyond the confines of Fort Worth. She has traveled the globe, presenting music history, teaching piano, and performing in renowned venues. As a well-known pianist in Brazil, she has graced stages in numerous countries, including the Czech Republic, France and Germany. Her knowledge of several languages has further enriched her international experiences. 

Among her many travels, Taiwan holds a special place in her heart. During her visits in 2016 and 2024, she had the opportunity to work with thousands of students over a seven-week period each time. Beyond her professional engagements, she immersed herself in Taiwanese culture, exploring its ancient temples and savoring its delectable cuisine. 

"My experiences traveling, playing and teaching internationally have significantly enhanced my teaching abilities," Araújo explained. "Communicating complex ideas across cultural and linguistic barriers has honed my skills in understanding and connecting with diverse learners." 

She imparts wisdom to her students, encouraging them to discover their passions and embrace challenges. "I believe all of us were born for a reason and we have a mission in life," she said. "It's up to us to discover what that is, and sometimes that means we have to leave home. You build a network, a new family, that supports you in your mission. Find your passion and cultivate it with responsibility. Know it will come with sacrifice, but I say always go for your passion. It will give you strength and determination you wouldn't find otherwise." 

Dr. Ilka Araújo's journey from a young girl dreaming of the stars to a world-renowned pianist and educator is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. Her story inspires us to embrace our dreams, no matter how unconventional they may seem. As she continues to share her musical gifts and impart wisdom to future generations, her legacy will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the world of music. 

Araújo is also currently working on a joint book with other former athletes to discuss how volleyball has been intertwined with her career –– from long days practicing on the court, to clear and concise communication, to quick thinking under pressure and everything in between. We look forward to its release!