Europe, North America, Asia: Lukas Sternath travelled the world as a youngster — but not yet as a pianist. Back then, he wore a sailor suit from the Vienna Boys’ Choir. “It was a formative, exciting time,” Sternath recall s. It was formative because “as a child, you learn to breathe with the music naturally.”. And exciting? Of course, because of all the travelling and the spotlight.
This ended for the time being when his voice began to break. But Sternath had already found a new destination for his musical talent – the piano. Laurels soon followed his training at the Vienna University of Music. In 2022, at age 21, Sternath won first prize and seven other awards at the renowned ARD competition. How did this victory feel? As if the young pianist had really “arrived” in the international music business? Sternath prefers to put it another way: “I hope that I never finally ‘arrive’ anywhere – it would mean stagnation for me. I would rather say that my journey has begun with this success.”
Igor Levit, a world star, who could be called Sternath’s travelling companion, is of the utmost importance on this journet. The German virtuoso has taught the young Viennese at the University of Music, Drama and Media in Hanover since 2021 and supports him with practical advice. “Igor is a huge influence,” enthuses Sternath. Levit also helps him “to deal with the classical music business properly and to make sure he doesn’t lose himself”. These tips are worth their weight in gold for the up-and-coming Austrian musician who doesn’t want to burn himself out quickly. “I want to be still able to play the piano in 70 years and enjoy my profession.”
