Orchestra of French-speaking Switzerland Announces Summer Festival Lineup
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- Orchestra of French-speaking Switzerland Announces Summer Festival Lineup
Geneva, Switzerland – The Orchestra of French-speaking Switzerland (OSR) is set to host its sixth annual summer music festival from August 21 to 23, 2025, at the Parc de Genève-Plage. The festival promises a diverse program, ranging from classical performances to a live movie-concert experience and a jazz tribute to Frank Sinatra.
Classical Beginnings with Mengoli and Conunova
The festival will commence on Thursday, August 21, with a classical concert led by conductor Giuseppe Mengoli. Violinist Alexandra Conunova will join the orchestra for a program featuring works never before performed by the OSR. These include Louise Farrenc’s “Opening No. 1 in E minor, Op. 23,” Emilie Mayer‘s “Symphony No. 7 in F Minor,” and Jules Massenet’s celebrated “Thaïs Meditation,” alongside a piece inspired by Georges Bizet’s opera, “Carmen,” composed by Franz Waxman.
Did You Know? Alexandra Conunova notes the unique challenges and rewards of performing outdoors, citing unpredictable elements like wind and humidity as factors that add to the experience.
An Immersive Outdoor Experience
Conunova emphasized the distinct atmosphere of outdoor concerts, stating, “Outside, we are really in immersion with nature, we are freer, we let the mind escape and unite with music.” She also described the unexpected challenges, such as wind affecting the bow and the elements impacting performance conditions.
“An American in Paris” – A Movie-Concert Spectacle
Friday, August 22, will feature a movie-concert presentation of Vincente Minnelli’s 1951 musical, “An american in Paris.” Under the direction of Ernst Van Tiel, the OSR will perform George Gershwin‘s iconic score live alongside a screening of the film, presented in its original language with French subtitles. This event builds on the success of last year’s “Singin’ in the Rain” performance.
Pro Tip: arrive early to secure a prime viewing spot for the movie-concert, as the event is expected to draw a large crowd.
Sinatra Under the Stars – A Jazz Finale
The festival will conclude on Saturday, august 23, with a jazz performance by Canadian singer Matt Dusk. Dusk’s program, “Sinatra Under the Stars,” will pay tribute to the legendary Frank Sinatra, accompanied by the OSR Jazz Band.The performance promises a musical journey evoking the ambiance of Las vegas and Geneva-Plage.
Festival Schedule at a Glance
| Date | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| August 21 | Classical Concert | Giuseppe Mengoli,Alexandra Conunova; Farrenc,Mayer,Massenet,Waxman |
| August 22 | Movie-Concert | “An American in Paris” with live orchestral accompaniment |
| August 23 | Jazz Performance | Matt Dusk - “Sinatra Under the Stars” |
The OSR’s summer festival continues a tradition of bringing accessible,high-quality musical experiences to the public.Outdoor concerts, as noted by researchers in the field of music psychology, can foster a unique connection between performers and audiences due to the natural setting and relaxed atmosphere [[1]]. What aspects of live music draw you to outdoor venues?
the festival’s diverse programming aims to appeal to a broad audience, showcasing both established masterpieces and lesser-known works. Do you think it’s important for orchestras to balance tradition with innovation in their programming?
The Enduring Appeal of Orchestral Music Festivals
Orchestral music festivals have a long and rich history, dating back to the 18th century. They provide a platform for musicians to showcase their talents, attract audiences, and foster a sense of community. The OSR’s summer festival is part of a growing trend of orchestras embracing outdoor venues and innovative programming to reach new audiences. The increasing popularity of these events reflects a broader cultural shift towards experiential entertainment and a desire for connection with nature and the arts.
Frequently Asked Questions about the OSR Summer Festival
- What is the OSR? The Orchestra of French-speaking Switzerland is a renowned musical ensemble based in Geneva.
- Where is the festival located? The festival takes place at the Parc de Genève-Plage in Geneva, Switzerland.
- What types of music will be performed? The festival features classical, film score, and jazz music.
- Is the movie-concert subtitled? Yes, “An American in Paris” will be shown with French subtitles.
- Are tickets required for the festival? Ticket data can be found on the OSR website.
We hope you’ll join us for this exciting celebration of music! Share this article with your friends and family, and let us know which performance you’re most looking forward to in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for updates on future events.