The performer and professor shares her best tips for young pianists

Milana Chernyavska, a German pianist with Ukrainian roots, serves as a professor at the University of Music and Performing Arts in Graz, Reina Sofía School of Music, and the International Music Academy in Liechtenstein. At the latter, her students recently performed a concert which is available to watch now on The Violin Channel.

In addition to teaching Chernyavska has performed in many significant concert halls such as the Musikverein in Vienna, Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, Berlin Philharmonic Hall, Suntory Hall in Tokyo, Wigmore Hall in London, Carnegie Hall in New York.

A recipient of Germany's "Echo Prize," she regularly plays at such festivals as the Lucerne Festival, Salzburg Festival, Rheingau Music Festival, and Piano Festival Ruhr, where she received the prestigious Alfred-Brendel Prize.

We had the chance to ask Milana for her best advice for young students wanting to build a sustainable career as a pianist in today’s industry.

Milana Chernyavska's Tips for Building a Career as a Pianist:

The word “career” is full of meanings that are often not synonymous with the term “being happy.” You may have heard the story about John Lennon. As a child, he was asked by his teacher what he wanted to be when he grew up. His answer? “I want to be happy.” The teacher replied: “You didn't understand the question.” But John simply replied: “No, you didn't understand the answer.”

This anecdote brings to light a truth that many forget: Having a career doesn't automatically mean being happy.

Being a good musician doesn't necessarily mean having a career, and having a career doesn't necessarily mean being a brilliant musician — as sad as that may sound.

The music world is tough. The market is unpredictable and overcrowded with talented pianists. The competition is often merciless and not always fair. It is therefore quite normal to sometimes ask yourself: “Why not me? Why is my talent going unnoticed?”

However, before you make the decision to focus entirely on a career, ask yourself an important question: "Am I prepared to make the sacrifices that this path demands?"

Also, ask yourself: "Is this really the only way I can realize myself as a musician?"

If you feel that you cannot do otherwise, that music is your purpose in life and your destiny, then fight for your place in the world of music. But realize that this fight requires more than just talent.

For those of you who have already embarked on a career as a concert pianist, here is some advice to help you:

1. 1. Your playing is the foundation — but not everything
      • Being a brilliant pianist is the foundation. Without exceptional technique, musical depth, and the art of interpretation, it will be difficult. But it's not enough to simply play well. You need to grow: attend master classes, discover new approaches to interpretation, keep up with musical trends, venture into modern works, and develop creative ideas for your concert programs. Take part in competitions, listen to other musicians, and not just pianists! Orchestral concerts can give you an incredible amount of inspiration.
   2. Connection to the audience is crucial
      • A concert is more than just a perfectly played program. It's about touching your audience and building an emotional connection. Show your personality and tell your story through the music. Your charisma can make all the difference, on and off stage.
      • Try to develop the ability to discover new things in old works so that your interpretations never sound routine.
   3. Contacts and networks are worth their weight in gold
      • In the world of music, no one gets ahead alone. Teachers, conductors, organizers, competitions — all these people and platforms can open doors for you. Take every opportunity to network, learn, and make yourself known.
   4. Marketing is important — create your personal brand
      • The days when talent alone was enough are over. Today, you also need to present yourself as a brand. Build a professional portfolio, be active on social media, post pictures, and show who you are. Use media and blogs to become visible. The more people know you, the better your chances.
   5. Psychological strength and flexibility is key
      • The everyday life of a musician is challenging. It requires discipline and smart time management. The ability to step in spontaneously when a major artist cancels at short notice is particularly important. Many careers have started like this. So practise learning new works quickly and maintaining a varied repertoire.
   6. Health is your most important asset
      • Life on tour is exciting, but it can also be physically and mentally draining. Take care of your health! Proper nutrition, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep are essential. And take good care of your hands, they are your most valuable tool
   7. Deal with stage fright
      • Almost every musician knows the fear of performing. Techniques such as visualization or meditation can help to calm your nerves and allow you to concentrate on the essentials: the music.
   8. Know how to plan for the future 
      • Understand the tax and social security systems for musicians. These basics will help you to better organize and protect your life.
   9. Success is no accident
      • It's the result of hard work, perseverance, and the ability to deal with setbacks and competition. It is about not giving up, even when the road becomes difficult.

Overall, playing the piano is the basis, yes. But that's not enough. Your personality, your charisma, your ability to touch people — all that counts just as much. In the end, it's this mixture that makes you an artist that the world won't forget.

Trust in yourself, constantly work on your vision, and always let the music speak your heart.