Ilia began his musical studies at age 5. His childhood aspirations were not with music, but with sports (excelling in swimming). On the question of favorite composers, alongside those traditionally occupying those slots, he lists Hindemith. Beyond classical music, he is fan of rock -- from Andrew Lloyd Weber to George Michael, Sting and Freddie Mercury. His undisputed idol among classical musicians is William Primrose.

As a hobby, Ilia makes arrangements of classical and pop compositions, and is very much interested in "everything connected to auto and bicycle sports".