The 70th edition of the Menuhin Festival Gstaad got off to a triumphant start on Thursday evening, as the nearly full Church of Saanen welcomed the festival's new Artistic Director, Daniel Hope, for his opening concert. Joined by legendary violinist and violist Pinchas Zukerman and the Zurich Chamber Orchestra, Hope delivered an evening that celebrated both Mozart's music and the festival's heritage, earning a standing ovation from the audience.

For Hope, the opening concert was about more than launching a new season. It was also an opportunity to present his artistic vision for the festival: a return to its musical roots, with collaboration, continuity and a renewed focus on the intimate atmosphere that has long defined Gstaad.

A friendship reflected in music
The musical centrepiece of the evening was Mozart's Sinfonia Concertante for violin and viola in E-flat major, performed by Hope and Zukerman. Their long-standing musical partnership translated into an intimate dialogue, with the two soloists complementing one another through contrasting styles.

Hope's playing was marked by lightness, warmth and transparency, while Zukerman brought a richer, darker tone and commanding presence. Together they captured the work's shifting moods, from youthful optimism to quiet melancholy, accompanied by the finely balanced playing of the Zurich Chamber Orchestra.

A return to familiar sounds
One of the evening's notable moments was the return of the Zurich Chamber Orchestra as a central festival ensemble. Performing under its distinctive "Play & Conduct" approach, where the soloist leads directly from the instrument rather than relying on a separate conductor, the orchestra demonstrated remarkable cohesion, sensitivity and energy throughout the programme.

The anniversary theme, Family Matters, was woven subtly into the evening, celebrating artistic continuity, enduring friendships and the strong bonds that have shaped the festival over the past seven decades.

An orchestra in top form
Alongside the Mozart works, the Zurich Chamber Orchestra delivered a vibrant performance of Haydn's Symphony No. 104 ("London"), combining power and clarity with elegance and precision. The concert concluded with an encore from the final movement of Mozart's "Jupiter" Symphony, prompting the audience to rise in appreciation.

Hope also proved an engaging host, introducing the programme with brief anecdotes about Mozart and Haydn that added context without interrupting the musical flow, making the evening accessible to both seasoned concertgoers and first-time festival visitors.

The opening concert set an assured tone for the weeks ahead: respectful of the festival's traditions, yet open to fresh ideas and new audiences. Judging by Thursday night's reception in Saanen Church, the festival's 70th anniversary has begun on exactly the right note.

Based on AvS / Sven Peternell