Today Markus can be proud of how those early days influenced him to be the founder of what is the Saanen Obersimmental Music School, which now has 40 registered tutors and more than 500 pupils studying a broad variety of musical disciplines.

After a commercial education, Markus first studied music at the Conservatory of Berne, then with Professor Jules Philippe Godard in Lausanne and finally he went on to further his studies in London. Following this was a long career in Swiss Army Bands where one of his prestigious positions was President of the Swiss Army Bandmaster Association, which deals with the content and organization of Swiss Army Bands. For 22 years Markus led the Brass Band Berner Oberland, which he also founded and was several times Swiss champion and five times winner of the Swiss Entertainment contest.

 Markus has an impressive list of International accolades made up of recognitions and awards from various cultural and musical associations, who have lauded his dedication and commitment to the Musical arts. He has been officially recognized as the architect of the European Brass Band Championships and elected honorary president of its association.

 Today Markus is a regular jury member of music competitions throughout Europe and is a conductor of various orchestras and wind ensembles. He and his wife Margrith have two sons and two grandchildren. Music continues in the family with both sons following significant professional musical conductor careers.

 Asking Markus what he wishes to share with the readers of GstaadLife, he tells me that we should encourage exposure to our readers of the long established and cherished local musical concerts, such as the “Saaner Altjahrskonzerte” (Saaner Old year concerts) and the Saaner Easter concerts. As the President of the Cultural commission of Saanen, he further encourages our readers to visit the Saaner Proms and what is known in Swiss German as a Saaner Abesitz (evening to talk). This precious and insightful activity attracts large groups of locals who listen to stories of the region, its history and its people. Such activity perpetuates culture and firms the roots of a place with its people and is well worth getting to know.