Schedule of events - Fondation du Verbier Festival

From the famous Funeral March of Schumann’s Quintet to the timeless tune of Schubert’s Trout, the finest soloists become chamber musicians to help us rediscover the popular heritage of Romantic music, with unmatched charm and inventiveness. 

Accomplished singers and instrumentalists of the Verbier Festival Academy’s Atelier Lyrique and Soloists & Ensembles Programmes unite for a vibrant recital of vocal chamber music, celebrating artistry, collaboration, and seldom-heard gems of the repertoire.

The promise of a perfect exploration of German Romanticism with one of its most brilliant creators, Robert Schumann, performed by exceptional artists gathered around pianist Minsoo Sohn, one of the revelations of the 2025 Verbier Festival.

Since his brilliant victory at the prestigious Tchaikovsky Competition, Alexandre Kantorow has captivated audiences with the intensity of his interpretations. At 28, he is one of the leading ambassadors of the piano worldwide. In addition to Chopin, he performs the exceptional Sonata by Medtner and a sacred masterpiece: Beethoven’s ultimate Sonata, Op. 111. 

Amira Abouzahra, violinist and violist, joins forces with her sister Mariam Abouzahra on violin for a programme centred on the dialogue between string instruments. Accompanied by pianist Julien Quentin, they explore a repertoire rich in contrasts, from the dazzling virtuosity of Eugène Ysaÿe to the expressive depth of Zoltán Kodály, through the great Romantic tradition of Richard Strauss. The concert concludes with Leó Weiner’s Divertimento, a work infused with Hungarian colours, where the two violins and piano engage in a lively and spirited musical exchange.

Piano superstar Yunchan Lim, only 21 years old, delves into Medtner’s universe with his monumental Piano Quintet, bringing together the finest musicians of his generation (Lozakovich, So, Ridout, Soltani). In the first half, clarinetist Pierre Génisson will explore the full lyrical genius of Bruch with his Eight Pieces for clarinet, viola, and piano. 

Kian Soltani is one of the most acclaimed cellists of his generation, sought after by today’s leading conductors (Barenboim, Gatti, Pappano, Shani…). Yet he remains deeply connected to his oriental roots and, with his ensemble Shiraz — founded by his father — enjoys presenting creative programmes inspired by Persian music. A guaranteed journey of discovery!

After nearly three weeks of rehearsals, coachings, and performances, musicians of the Verbier Festival Academy’s Soloists programme come together for an afternoon of chamber music featuring works by Fauré and Shostakovich.

For many musicians, Jascha Heifetz is considered the greatest violinist of all time. With this programme, Marc Bouchkov pays tribute to the Russian-born American violinist (1901–1987) by presenting works that showcase his extraordinary virtuosity.

Musicians of the Verbier Festival Academy’s Soloists programme are joined by the Fibonacci Quartet, one of the Academy’s 2026 ensembles in residence, for a morning recital of chamber music by Haydn, Mozart and Mendelssohn.

Clara-Jumi Kang and Sunwook Kim, both renowned for their fiery temperament, have triumphed in numerous international competitions. They perform works by Strauss, Respighi, and Weinberg, confronting the Romantic heritage with the turmoil of the 20th century. This marks the German violinist’s first appearance in Verbier — a perfect opportunity to discover the full breadth of her talent. 

The final chamber music recital of the Verbier Festival Academy’s Soloists & Ensembles programme brings together musicians of the Soloists programme and the inn.wien ensemble, one of the Academy’s 2026 ensembles in residence, in works by Bartók, Schumann and Dohnányi. The concert is followed by the Academy Awards ceremony.