Ilmārs Šterns is a Latvian-born composer and performer based in Bern, Switzerland, whose work investigates the intersections of musical and choreographic art forms through interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary practices.

His approach challenges traditional boundaries by combining elements of performance, sound, and visual art to create immersive experiences where voice, sound, movement, and visual stimuli interact in real time. Šterns emphasises the unique sonic properties of the voice and the kinetic potential of the body to expand the limits of conventional performance structures.

His compositions integrate structured and improvised components, field recordings, graphic scores, and physical objects, fostering a hybrid environment that reflects contemporary coexistence and mediates between different artistic paradigms.

Alongside master`s degrees in Contemporary Music Singing at the Riga Academy of Pedagogy and Educational Management (2014), studied Scenography at the Art Academy of Latvia (2017), and finished Sound and Performance Art at the Bern Academy of the Arts (2020), he has a training in various vocal practices, piano, cello, and movement disciplines, as Dalcroze Eurythmics, Alexander technique and contemporary dance.

In 2014, Šterns received the appreciation acknowledgement for his investment in teaching the new generation of jazz musicians in Latvia from the Latvian National Centre of Culture. 

Since completion of studies, Šterns has produced a range of notable works, receiving recognition, including a Studio Scholarship in composition from the Landis & Gyr Foundation (2025) and a Creative Scholarship from the Latvian State Culture Capital Foundation (2023). Šterns’ notable projects include “BODY UNDER MIND” awarded by City and Canton Bern (2024), “Two Humans & a Harp,” nominated for the Nicati Prize (2023), and “Sound Performances for Clothes and Experimental Voice,” nominated for the Excellence in the Arts award (2020), shows his innovative approach and has received accolades across Europe, Africa, and America. Through performances, workshops, and collaborative endeavors, he continues to engage diverse audiences with his innovative artistry.