String Academy 2026

The String Academy will open a new chapter within the Gstaad Menuhin Festival from summer 2026. Under the artistic direction of Daniel Hope, it brings together outstanding young string players from around the world who wish to further develop their musical identity in an intensive and supportive environment.In the inspiring setting of Gstaad, artistic excellence, technical refinement, and meaningful human exchange come together. The programme combines daily masterclasses, chamber music, individual coaching, and public performances – all carried by the spirit of Yehudi Menuhin, who once realised his own vision of musical mentorship here.

Since 2013, the String Academy has provided a platform for exceptional young talents. Under the guidance of renowned professors such as Igor Ozim, Ana Chumachenco, Rainer Schmidt, Gilles Apap, Ettore Causa and Ivan Monighetti, participants have worked intensively on solo repertoire, chamber music, and orchestral works.A particular highlight has been the collaboration with the Conducting Academy, in which selected young artists have had the opportunity to study and perform violin concertos by Beethoven, Mendelssohn and Brahms, as well as cello concertos by Lalo and Elgar, together with the Menuhin Festival Orchestra.

The master class will be open to public audition. Final concerts will take place at the Hotel Landhaus in Saanen, in the Church of Gsteig and in the Church of Lauenen.

The active participants in the master classes will also have the opportunity to attend various outstanding concerts during the festival week (tickets based on availability).