This year, the band teamed with the Jodlerklub Bärgfriede to deliver a varietyof music to the enthusiastic audience.

Bärgfriede and musical director Jörg Domke first sang several pieces accompanied by Harmonie. The brass band’s conductor Michael Bach had arranged three yodel songs for his musicians, including “Zfriede sy” by Jürg Domke and “Alpsäge” Ferdinand Krayenbühl. The evening continued on a journey thorough the Swiss music scene. Next up was a march composed by local Gottfriend von Siebenthal, entitled “The Saanenland.” 

Highlights included “Traversada”, a piece written expressly for Harmonie by Swiss composer Oliver Waespi in 2013, and a collection of songs in Bernese dialect by the late, great Mani Matter. 

Despite a kitschy reputation, yodling remains a point of pride for many in the Saanenland. Bärgfriede's group of 30 active singers boasts many young members who are passionate about continuing the musical traditions of their ancestors. The same goes for the 32 musicians in Harmonie, which has been going strong since it was founded in 1884.

For a schedule of upcoming concerts, please visit ww.bbhs.ch or www.gstaad.ch.