When the Saanenland resonates with violins

 From 30 January to 7 February 2026, the Saanenland once again becomes a winter meeting point for classical music lovers, as the Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad returns for its 26th edition. Concerts take place in the churches of Saanen and Rougemont and in the chapel in Gstaad, intimate settings that have long been part of the festival’s unmistakable identity.

This year’s guiding theme, “It’s not a Fairy Tale, it’s real,” is both a statement and an invitation. The music may feel almost unreal in its beauty, yet it is experienced up close and unfiltered, one of the defining qualities of this winter festival.

Vive le violon
Follow ing last year’s focus on the piano, the violin now takes centre stage. Seven exceptionally promising young violinists perform daily recital programmes in the Gstaad chapel, accompanied by piano, and compete for two prestigious prizes: the Thierry Scherz Prize, which includes the recording of a first orchestral CD with Claves Records, and the André Hoffmann Prize for the best interpretation of the commissioned work Bleu sur bleu.

Mentoring the young musicians is Vadim Repin, whose presence is a hallmark of this edition. Once described by Yehudi Menuhin as “the best and most perfect violinist I have ever heard,” Repin shares his experience through masterclasses while also appearing on stage in several concerts.

A new work, heard daily
The commissioned piece Bleu sur bleu, written by French composer Yves Chauris, forms part of the competition repertoire. Scored for violin and piano, the work receives its world premiere during the festival, performed daily at 4pm by the young talents. Due to scheduling constraints, these performances take place in the church of Gstaad rather than the chapel.

Stars, favourites and family audiences
Five major concerts featuring international stars are held at the church in Saanen, alongside a children’s concert. The opening night on 30 January promises a highlight: Renaud Capuçon directs and performs alongside Clara-Jumi Kang, Pascal Siffert and the Chamber Orchestra of Europe in an all-Mozart programme.

Two free concerts complete the programme. Following the success of last year’s Titeuf collaboration, the children’s concert is again visually enhanced, this time by artist Grégoire Pont. A second free concert in Rougemont features pianist Gabriel Durliat.

Concerts in Rougemont also feature Capuçon's “personal favourites”: intimate recitals and chamber music evenings with artists such as Vadim Repin, pianist Mao Fujita, and the Trio Nebelmeer.

Renaud Capuçon in brief Artistic Director, Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad
At the heart of Capuçon’s vision is balance: between generations, between established names and emerging voices. “Inviting very young musicians alongside great artists is essential to the festival’s identity,” he explains. Working with the next generation matters deeply to him, not only to pass on experience and perspective, but also to absorb their energy in return.

Among his personal highlights this year is the long-awaited return to the stage with pianist Hélène Grimaud, revisiting repertoire by Ravel and Schumann. “She has an uncompromising intensity and a presence that truly shines on stage,” Capuçon notes, qualities he values deeply in musical partnership.

From solo recitals to vocal highlights with tenor Pene Pati at the festival’s close, Capuçon is convinced that this year’s edition will leave a lasting impression.

26th Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad
30 January – 7 February 2026
Programme & tickets: sommets-musicaux.com