Between Sound and Silence – A Day Dedicated to Music
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Black-and-white shot of Yehudi Menuhin playing the violin.
The Magic of the Morning
The day begins quietly in Saanen. The morning sun bathes the picturesque chalets and the historic church in a soft, golden light. Marlène Tschanz strolls through the still-silent pedestrian zone to the festival office. As Head of Fundraising & Events at the Gstaad Menuhin Festival & Academy, she is often on the move – yet firmly rooted in the Gstaad holiday region, where culture and nature blend in a truly unique way.
Just a few steps from the festival office lies the very place where Yehudi Menuhin founded the festival in 1957 – a place rich in history and vision. Marlène’s connection to music goes back to her childhood. Back then, she would yodel with her mother while doing the dishes, accompanied by classical melodies from an old radio. Her calling to culture began with an apprenticeship at Hotel Alpenland, which ultimately led her to the world of classical music.
Of Messages and Encounters
In the charming chalet village, Marlène pauses for a moment in front of the statue of Yehudi Menuhin. Memories of personal encounters with the great humanist during her time in the hospitality industry are still vivid. His words about the importance of human connection have left a lasting impression on her. These reflections continue to guide her – in her work, in her thinking, and in her actions.
The church of Saanen is a place of calm for her – personally meaningful and of great significance to the festival as well. Here, the power of music meets outstanding acoustics. With its Academy, the festival opens doors for young musicians to the world of classical music – a springboard to the world’s great stages. Today, the festival is a flagship of the Gstaad holiday region and enjoys a reputation that extends far beyond Switzerland’s borders.
Marlène dedicates herself wholeheartedly to her work: organizing exclusive dinners for sponsors, meeting with artists, and accompanying the festival through all seasons.
A Retreat in Nature – Strength for Culture
In the afternoon, Marlène seeks distance from the bustle – her escape leads her to the Gelten area. There, where nature reveals its raw and unfiltered power, she finds a sense of vastness and new perspectives. The steep hiking trail winds along a narrow path through the forest, past rugged rock faces. The steady rhythm of her footsteps, the distant ringing of cowbells, and the gentle roar of a nearby waterfall give the moment depth.
Seated on a rock, she gazes into the distance. The silence up here feels like a counterpoint to the vibrant rhythm of the festival. Many of the artists who perform in Gstaad know and cherish these secluded places as well. The connection between music and nature is no coincidence – it is tangible, experienceable, and essential for many musicians. For Marlène, this balance between intense work and powerful silence is a vital source of energy.
Musical Highlight on the Eggli
After her short retreat, Marlène prepares for the evening. As the gondola slowly ascends towards the Eggli, she checks final details and mentally runs through the evening’s schedule. Every moment up here reminds her why the festival is so deeply rooted in her life.
At the Eggli mountain restaurant, an air of anticipation fills the space. Marlène greets guests, exchanges a few words with sponsors, and meets familiar faces. The festival dares to innovate – with unconventional venues and fresh formats. The concert location on the Eggli is a perfect reflection of this transformation.
As the first notes of the swing concert begin to play, a sense of calm gradually washes over her. The music carries her away, and the day’s tension fades. Her gaze drifts across the terrace and out into the vast mountain landscape, as night slowly settles over the Saanenland.
For Marlène, the festival is not just a job – it is a way of life. A lived rhythm of connection, sound, and scenery. And so, this special day draws to a quiet close – with a smile and the comforting sense of being part of something greater.
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