 As a member of the Young Communist League, Nelepp obtained transfer to Leningrad, where he entered a military topographical school, graduating in 1927.Although he had no formal music education, he nevertheless enjoyed playing the violin and harmonica, and above all singing.In 1927, his wife—who was studying to teach music—along with some of his friends persuaded him to audition for admission to the Leningrad Conservatory.