What began as a modest concert series in 1957, founded by violinist Yehudi Menuhin, has grown into one of Switzerland’s most celebrated cultural events. The Gstaad Menuhin Festival & Academy, now under the artistic direction of Christoph Müller, presents over 60 concerts annually, drawing classical music’s finest talents to Saanenland. The 2025 edition, titled “Migration”, will take place from 18th July to 6th September, concluding a three-year thematic progression.

This year’s line-up includes a remarkable roster of renowned musicians, such as Fazıl Say, the Turkish pianist and composer known for his innovative blend of classical and contemporary styles; Georgian virtuoso Khatia Buniatishvili, celebrated for her emotional intensity and technical brilliance; Russian pianist Daniil Trifonov, recognised for his profound interpretations of Romantic repertoire; and Icelandic pianist Víkingur Ólafsson, whose masterful renditions of Bach and contemporary works have earned him international acclaim.

The festival will also feature world-class orchestras such as the Tonhalle-Orchester Zürich and the Gstaad Festival Orchestra, alongside celebrated soloists. These include Cecilia Bartoli, the acclaimed Italian mezzo-soprano famed for her renditions of bel canto and Baroque opera; Sonya Yoncheva, the versatile Bulgarian soprano renowned for her stunning performances in both opera and concert settings; and Avi Avital, the Israeli mandolinist known for his vibrant reimaginings across classical and folk genres. These performances will be held in venues famed for their acoustics, including the historic churches of Saanenland and the Gstaad Festival Tent.

The 2025 programme, centred on the theme of “Migration”, invites audiences to reflect on the profound changes shaping our world. Following 2023’s focus on “Humility” and 2024’s exploration of “Transformation”, this edition explores how classical music engages with shifting societal and environmental dynamics. Concerts are thoughtfully curated under titles such as “Origin” – music rooted in homeland; “Escape to Exile” – sounds born of displacement; “Inner Emigration” – the introspective work of artists under oppressive regimes; and “Nostalgia” – music that evokes the ache of homesickness. Each section will come alive through the artists’ personal stories and unique performances.

For those seeking a profound connection to nature, the upcoming edition will elevate the festival experience through its "Mountain Spirit" series. Performances will unfold on the Eggli, with the terrace of its mountain-top restaurant providing the perfect backdrop. By blending live music with the majestic Alpine landscape, this format encapsulates the festival’s ethos of “Music. Nature. You.”, inviting attendees to fully immerse themselves in the harmonious dialogue between art and nature. As the Gstaad Menuhin Festival celebrates its 69th year, it continues to honour Yehudi Menuhin’s vision of music as a powerful force for unity. The festival remains a must-visit for classical music lovers, offering a platform for world-class performances and meaningful dialogue in an ever-changing world.