Lucerne Festival @ Musik Hug

Lucerne Festival, in collaboration with Musik Hug Luzern, presents a new talk series where audiences can meet key figures from the Festival. In an informal setting, Beate Gilgenreiner will engage in conversation with renowned musicians and influential figures, exploring their journeys into music, what drives them today, and their experiences within and beyond the music world. Discussions will also highlight works and composers particularly dear to them.

Each talk lasts 45 minutes and takes place at the Musik Hug branch in Kriens (Arsenalstrasse 27). Admission is free, but space is limited.

The Festival’s Executive and Artistic Director Michael Haefliger is the guest for the second installment. He will conclude his tenure and pass on his position to Sebastian Nordmann at the end of 2025. In conversation with Beate Gilgenreiner, Michael Haefliger reflects on his 26 years at Lucerne Festival – sharing moments of joy, personal highlights, and significant challenges. Naturally, the discussion will also touch on the many artists who have become important companions along his journey.

For the third installment, Beate Gilgenreiner will be joined by Sarah Willis. They will discuss the acclaimed horn player’s successful project Mozart y Mambo, which brings her to Lucerne Festival on 13 August. For several years, Willis has been working with the Havana Lyceum Orchestra to combine the works of Mozart with Cuban music. The conversation will also touch on her experiences as a horn player – both in general and as a longtime member of the BerlinerPhilharmoniker, with whom she has played for more than 20 years. Additionally, they will explore her dedication to music education, including her work in designing concerts for young audiences.

For the first guest in our new talk series in collaboration with Musik Hug Luzern, we invited Reinhold Friedrich on Thursday, April 10 2025, principal trumpeter of the Lucerne Festival Orchestra since its founding. Beate Gilgenreiner did not only discuss his personal journey but also offered a behind-the-scenes look at the Lucerne Festival Orchestra and its Beethoven focus at the Spring Festival.