03/08/2024
Magical moments at the Casino of Bern
Classical music wins many new fans thanks to the Swiss National Orchestra
On August 1, the Swiss National Orchestra (SNO) gave its inaugural concert at the Casino Bern to a full house. The audience was enthralled by an unparalleled sound spectacle, featuring the finest Swiss musicians on the national and international orchestral scene. The concert, which was free of charge, aroused great enthusiasm for classical music among the numerous spectators.
On August 1, when the Swiss National Orchestra (SNO) began its first notes, the hall was filled with positive vibrations. During the 90-minute concert, time seemed to stand still. Guests immersed themselves in a world of sound that took them on an emotional journey through the ages.
New interpretations rich in tradition
Under the direction of its renowned Music Director and Principal Conductor, John Axelrod, SNO offered a performance that captivated both experts and new classical music enthusiasts. The concert opened with a powerful performance of Hans Huber's "Tell Symphony", followed by Giacomo Puccini's haunting Symphonic Intermezzo from Manon Lescaut, and the Polonaise from Tchaikovsky's opera Eugene Onegin - all works composed in Switzerland. The virtuosity, color and sound of the SNO emerged through its perfect harmony and dynamics, underscoring the timeless beauty of thesemasterpieces.
Geneva-based and Berlin Philharmonic flute soloist Sébastian Jacot delighted the audience with Siegfried Wagner'sKonzertstück for flute and orchestra, followed by Swiss composer Arthur Honegger's "Pastoraled'été". His flute solo continued with the infinite melody of Rachmaninov's Vocalise. To conclude,the famous William Tell Overture enthralled the audience, evoking the exploits of the national hero.
John Axelrod emphasized: "Music has the power to unite people and build bridges. It was anhonor for me to conduct this orchestra of over 70 musicians in its first concert." The talents impressed with their high technical skills and perfect understanding - particularly remarkable, given that many of them are meeting and playing together for the first time.
Music for all
Artistic Director Igor Longato was very pleased with his team's successful performance: "Our aim was, and is, to offer first-class Swiss musicians the opportunity to play together, and at the same time to make music of the highest level accessible to everyone. And that's exactly what we've succeeded in doing today," he summed up.
SNO has clearly shown that classical music is by no means exclusive or inaccessible. The orchestra thus marks the start of a new era in the Swiss musical landscape, and makes a significant contribution to the preservation of Switzerland's rich cultural heritage.
Upcoming projects in Rome
Another large-scale event is already planned for November 17, 2024: a concert in the Vatican, tobe held under the patronage of the Swiss Embassy. The aim is to present and promote Switzerland's rich cultural and musical tradition in a global context. The enthusiasm and positive energy of the inaugural concert will also resonate beyond the Casino. Anyone wishing to be enchanted by the music should make a note of the forthcoming dates in their diary.
About the Swiss National Orchestra:
The Swiss National Orchestra is a non-profit, tax-exempt, non-religious and apoliticalassociation based in Bern. Founded in 2016 by a group of Swiss musicians and administrators,the SNO represents all of Switzerland and stands for musical excellence and innovation. For furtherinformation: www.sno.ch
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