The projects, resulting of a meeting of creators from different origins, influences and language regions, provide exciting insights into worlds where tradition and modernity come together and reinvent themselves.
Nik Bärtsch & Eklekto: Symbiosis of jazz and minimal music
When the Geneva collective Eklekto approached Nik Bärtsch to celebrate his 50th anniversary as a musician, the chemistry between the Zurich pianist and the drummers was obvious. Due to their shared admiration for the works of Steve Reich and Morton Feldman, they were virtually predestined for a collaboration. This encounter resulted in an exclusive creation for the Label Suisse Festival: a work for piano and three percussionists on a sound journey along the interface of Zen, jazz and contemporary minimalist music.
The process of creating this piece was characterised by an intensive examination of textures and rhythms, which are typical of Bärtsch’s methodical approach. Together, the musicians worked in the spirit of fluid interaction, where every musical gesture is meticulously designed to create a meditative atmosphere. This project is a fine example of how Bärtsch can create a fusion of different genres and transform minimalist elements into an immersive musical experience.
Christoph Stiefel and the music academies of Lausanne (HEMU) and Lucerne (HSLU): traditional isorythmy in contemporary jazz
Swiss jazz icon Christoph Stiefel returns with a daring creation: “Fluidum”. Together with students from HEMU and HSLU, Stiefel reinterprets the medieval compositional technique of isorythmy and skilfully embeds it in a contemporary jazz context.
The creation of “Fluidum” was a continuous process of experimentation in which Stiefel worked closely with the students. Together, they explored the possibilities of isorythmy, this old, constant technique of repeating a rhythmic pattern in combination with a melodic series of their own. The dialogue between tradition and innovation helps this work transcend temporal boundaries and offer an experience that is both profound and accessible.
Harmonie Lausanne & Traktorkestar: fiery Balkan brass clashes with the tradition of the Orphéon
The fiery encounter between Harmonie Lausanne and Traktorkestar brings a touch of exuberance to the 11th edition of the Label Suisse Festival. This unique collaboration combines the elegance of the Lausanne brass orchestra with the concentrated power of the Bernese Balkan brass band, known for its energy and passion for wild rhythms.
A constant striving for a balance between the precision of the orchestral arrangements and the unbridled spontaneity of the musicians characterised the process of creating music in this case. The result is a veritable sound festival in which every note resonates with the collective energy of the two ensembles.
The entire festival programme is accessible here: www.labelsuisse.ch
SUISA is a sponsor of the varied and exciting Label Suisse Festival, which focuses on Swiss music.
