Earlier this month, Vienna-based musician Sofie Royer took to the stage at London’s Omeara. Emerging through the smoke, Royer’s penchant for the theatrical entered the spotlight. A classically trained violinist, DJ and student of philosophy, psychology and art, across three records, including her recently-released work, Young-Girl Forever, Royer’s influences and experiences shape vivid, multi-dimensional characters. Throughout, the musician has explored and reworked notions of artistic exploration and expression, drawing as much influence from shimmering new wave pop icons as traditional cabaret customs and Viennese opera and ballet. On stage, Royer’s music takes on a new identity and intensity – fresh off stage, we caught up with Royer to discuss the thrills and sensations of live performance.

Do you remember the first time you performed live and how it made you feel?
“Honestly not so much; I’ve enjoyed it for a long time. I must have been really young! I’ve been playing violin since I was four, so probably a recital sometime around that age. My first big stage rush was playing violin at Carnegie Hall at nine.”

How has that feeling evolved now you’re an experienced performer?
“I think there’s always room to learn and different environments pose different challenges.”

How do you feel before you walk out on stage? How do you prepare yourself?
“My ideal situation is some peace and quiet – usually that’s harder to come across than you’d think.”

How does it differ performing with an instrument and without? Do you enjoy the physicality of it?
“Your voice is an instrument, though, and maybe more physical in terms of your breath and control than either the keys and violin for me. Plus I like doing all three on stage for variety.”

Can you take us through some great performers/performances you’ve seen?
“Anthony Shake Shakir was amazing to see, Marcos Valle, LCD Soundsystem are incredible, and I love Air so much it’s unfathomable! Jonathan Meese‘s Mondparsifal at the Burgtheater was incredible, and so was him and Lilith Stangenberg in Kampflolita. I also really like the Musikverein in Vienna’s classical programming.”

And how does it feel walking off stage after a great gig?
“Probably how you’d think it feels; mostly I’m exuberant yet sad it’s over!”

Follow Sofie on Instagram.