After a turbulent chapter, the International Menuhin Music Academy looks toward a possible revival—and even reconciliation.

After facing major financial difficulties in the summer of 2024, the International Menuhin Music Academy (IMMA) is cautiously regaining stability. With Lausanne-based lawyer Loïc Pfister now appointed as commissioner by the supervisory authority, a long-term solution may be on the horizon, including the prospect of collaboration with the recently established Menuhin Academy.

From crisis to continuity
The crisis began when IMMA’s principal patron ended her five-year sponsorship, leaving the foundation in financial disarray. At the time, Mr. Andrea E. Rusca sought to establish a new foundation board, while the Menuhin Academy was established in parallel to continue supporting the students.
Today, IMMA’s administration lies with Pfister, while the Menuhin Academy carries forward its educational mission—both institutions united by a common goal: the well-being of the students.

Teachers kept the flame alive
The Academy’s three principal teachers—Oleg Kaskiv, Pablo de Naverán, and Ivan Vukčević—continued teaching their students without interruption, now under the Menuhin Academy banner. With support from Jeremy Menuhin, they obtained permission to use his father’s name and upheld the Academy’s educational standards, even working pro bono since August 2024.

Despite financial strain, the students’ basic needs—including housing, meals, and insurance—have been met, largely thanks to logistical support from Institut Le Rosey. Encouragingly, new pledges from donors and foundations suggest the situation may soon improve.

Students shine despite setbacks
Vukčević praises the students’ dedication and artistry during a time of uncertainty, highlighting a string of impressive achievements. Violinist Bohdan Luts won first prizes at both the Long-Thibaud Competition in Paris and the Carl Nielsen Competition in Copenhagen. Vasyl Zatsikha now serves as concertmaster of the Orchestra della Svizzera Italiana, where Vladyslav Osadchyi is Principal Viola. Juyin Hong and Theodor Kaskiv earned distinctions at the Concours d’Interprétation Musicale de Lausanne and the Andrea Postacchini Competition in Italy. As a group, the students have successfully revived the celebrated Sunday concerts at Rosey’s Carnal Hall, performed a sold-out concert at Geneva’s Victoria Hall, toured Greece, and appeared at the Tonhalle Zürich and the Théâtre de La Chaux-de-Fonds—often performing alongside acclaimed artists such as Maurice Steger and Howard Griffiths.

A shared future?
Should IMMA be fully restored, the teachers—and Jeremy Menuhin—are open to a future collaboration. “The IMMA has been our family for many years,” says de Naverán. Kaskiv adds: “It carries a 47-year tradition, founded by Yehudi Menuhin and Alberto Lysy. We are emotionally deeply connected to it.”

Still, any formal partnership would depend on the outcome of ongoing legal proceedings and the resolution of IMMA’s financial uncertainties.

Legal dispute still unresolved
The most immediate hurdle remains the legal conflict between IMMA and the family office of former patron Aline Foriel-Destezet. According to her legal counsel, the foundation acted against her explicit wishes in acquiring student housing in Tartegnin—an issue central to the dispute. The family office declined to comment further.

A delicate mandate
Court-appointed administrator Loïc Pfister has been tasked with overseeing day-to-day operations, reviewing finances, and determining whether IMMA can continue. “A liquidation is one possible outcome,” he admits, “but I’m hopeful we can bring the foundation back on track.”

His next steps include negotiating with the family office, securing new board members, and preparing to resume activities at IMMA. “The ingredients are there: engaged teachers, loyal donors, student interest,” Pfister notes. “The outcome depends on resolving the dispute and ensuring long-term financial security.”

Based on AvS | Sonja Wolf

Follow the Menuhin Academy (as they are now called) for further news and concert dates