Music, architecture, encounters – the magic of Lucerne Festival Ark Nova

It was a moment full of anticipation when the revolving doors of Lucerne Festival Ark Nova opened on 4 September and the first visitors stepped into the mobile concert hall. Suddenly, you were no longer simply standing on the Lidowiese in Lucerne – you had entered a space that was at once a work of art, a stage and a world of experience. As if from another dimension, the gently shimmering, aubergine-coloured sculpture rose into the sky. For eleven days, it stood there as if it had always been part of the landscape: a temporary marvel of air and architecture, created by Sir Anish Kapoor and Arata Isozaki.

A place that touched hearts

Around 12,000 visitors were captivated by this walk-in sculpture. Here, music, art, architecture and people merged into a greater whole – a vibrant, magical place. Over 35 concerts, guided tours and special moments transformed Ark Nova into a resonance chamber. Classical, jazz, folk and pop music stood side by side, carried by the passion of those who shared their music with the audience. Swiss singer-songwriters Mercee and Ursina enchanted the audience with pop music, the Surprise Street Choir brought joie de vivre to the room, the Ukrainian choir Prostir filled it with touching depth, while pianist Igor Levit and an ensemble from the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra provided unforgettable moments of magic. Each performance was like a new colour in a bright kaleidoscope.

Open for everyone

Not only was the programme itself extraordinary, but so was its accessibility. With tickets starting at 15 Swiss francs and numerous free offers such as Family Days and the ‘Open for All’ time slots, barriers were broken down and doors thrown wide open. Around 4,000 people took advantage of this opportunity to experience music freely and directly. The four exclusive school concerts were also completely sold out – a sign of how much Ark Nova captivated all generations. This accessibility was made possible in particular by our partners UBS, Zurich Insurance and our media partner 20 Minuten.

A legacy of hope

The story of Ark Nova began far away in Japan, where it was created in response to the devastating earthquake of 2011 – as a travelling ambassador of culture, hope and new beginnings. Its first visit to Europe was more than just a guest performance: it was a gift. A symbol that music and art build bridges, even in times of uncertainty. And so the memory of these eleven days remains like an echo that does not fade: evenings full of music, encounters between generations and cultures – Music Is Hope!