As we embark on another exciting chapter of the Classeek Ambassador Programme, we are thrilled to announce the full season schedule for the 2024-2025 season. Since its inception in 2017, the Ambassador Programme has been dedicated to discovering, nurturing, and supporting the next generation of classical musicians. Our commitment remains unwavering as we continue to provide unparalleled opportunities for young artists to elevate their careers on a global stage. This season promises to be particularly special, filled with fresh performances, innovative projects, and inspiring musical journeys.

This upcoming season’s cohort is a testament to the artistry that defines the future of classical music. Selected through ambassador nominations and an open application, these musicians represent the promise of emerging classical musicians. Each artist brings a unique voice and perspective to the programme, enhancing the richness and vibrancy of our musical community. We are excited to introduce these remarkable individuals and showcase their artistry throughout the upcoming season.

We are delighted to continue our collaboration with QEMC to bring together artists from our two programmes, curated and led by chamber coach, violist, and Classeek Ambassador 

The upcoming season promises a journey of musical exploration and excellence. Our carefully curated programme includes a series of concerts, masterclasses, and special events that will highlight the talents of our Ambassador Programme artists. We are particularly excited about the collaborations and unique projects that will unfold, offering audiences a diverse and enriching experience. From solo recitals to ensemble performances, each event is designed to celebrate the creativity and skill of our young musicians.

As we look forward to the new season, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our supporters, partners, and audiences. Your unwavering support enables us to continue our mission and make a meaningful impact in the classical music community. 

 to stay tuned for the latest updates – it's going to be a year filled with fresh performances, concert programmes, and musical discoveries. Here's to the journey ahead!

Announcing the Full Season Schedule for the 2024-2025 Classeek Ambassador Programme

Concert Lineup for Season 2024-25

 (Violin), Open Application instrumentalist winner

Stay tuned for updates. More information coming soon.

Kryštof Kohout

Violin Recital

Piano

Nour Ayadi

Cello

Gautier Capuçon

 (Piano), nominated by (and performing with) 

An expressive meditation on Rachmaninov, Debussy, and Liszt

For me, [the piano] is the place where I find myself, where I can meditate, be almost in a sort of trance…it allows me to discover who I am, my limits…

The cellist is anchored in the ground, around his instrument, there is a union of two bodies… we wrap around each other, it’s very sensual.

Pianist Nour Ayadi, and cellist Gautier Capuçon, share an intimate relationship with their instruments that surpasses physical touch. It is a relationship that nourishes their sense of identity and grounds them in a universe that spins on the axis of musical strings. 

Mysticism echoes through Sergei Rachmaninov’s 

Sonata in G minor for Cello and Piano, Op. 19

. Reaching psychological breaking point in 1897 after a catastrophic premiere of his Symphony No. 1, hypnotherapy lulled the composer into recovery, after which emerged this sonata. Featuring close intervals, passionate single-note repetitions and bell-like sonorities, the symphony is reminiscent of the spirit of the Russian Orthodox Church. 

Mysticism and mystery are not limited to the four-movement form. Claude Debussy’s 

 (From a sketchbook) is a brief, yet seductive piano work of just fifty-five measures. Its “very slow (without rigour)” rhythm has a persuasive quality, rich with thoughtful repetition and meaningful pauses. First publicly performed by Ravel in 1910, it remains one of Debussy’s least known and most neglected works.

 lets its anxiety and torment be known. As repeated themes turn incessantly around each other, we can almost feel the anguish regurgitating through the notes. With obsessive motifs and sharp staccatos, the work departs from the slow pondering of the previous work. Written in the summer of 1904, Debussy had just left his first wife for singer Emma Bardac. Its title, he said, “is not [a reference to] Commedia dell’arte, but the tragic expression of existence.”

After ceaseless probing, we start a gradual descent into an inferno through the Devil’s Interval (a tritone). 

Après une lecture du Dante (Fantasia quasi Sonata)

 by Franz Liszt describes the journey of the soul into hell, beginning with descending tritones and dissonant harmonies that brings us to D minor – a key infamously associated with death in Romantic music. The second theme of this work is an enchanted chorale in the major, representing the uplifting nature of Heaven. Perhaps it is here that we witness the meditation and intimacy that both Ayadi and Capuçon experience with their instruments.

Nour Ayadi and Gautier Capuçon

D'un cahier d'esquisses

Masques

Après une lecture du Dante - Fantasia quasi Sonata

Piano and Cello Recital

Soprano

Aida Pascu

 (Soprano), ICMA Young Artist 2024 award winner.

Opera is a dramatic extravaganza: love, betrayal and tragedy set against intense vibratos. Romanian soprano Aida Pascu reveals another side, “…this is a very lonely world… You go home, and you’re alone most of the time. Even if you’re married, you have a family. You’re alone. You’re on your own.” This stillness is captured in 

. A rare moment of lyrical calm and peace in an otherwise tumultuous and dark story, this aria presents a quiet moment of appreciation that individual introspection can offer. 

Individual introspection can also reveal vulnerabilities. In the aria 

, the eponymous character, Thaïs, implores for an affirmation of her beauty. Massenet effectively uses melodic repetition until we can feel Thaïs tugging on our arms, pleading for validation as she grapples with the idea that to be loved and valued in society, she must be beautiful.

, written towards the end of his life, provides a brief instrumental meditation before the stage gives way to a well-known operatic heavyweight: Puccini’s 

. This is the 19th century version of a meet-cute: the love interest, Rodolfo, opens the door of his apartment to Mimi, who wants to borrow a matchstick. She introduces herself singing, “Yes, they call me Mimi” and describes her peaceful life as a seamstress. It is a rare moment of simplicity in opera, as she shows a sincere humbleness in her appreciation of everyday beauty.

Replacing simplicity for existential longing, we continue with the first of George Enescu’s three melodies, 

. Enescu paints a graphic picture of an empty landscape through the use of wide intervals, while an ambiguous tonal landscape is supported by arpeggiated figures in the piano, reflecting inner turmoil. It is an inner turmoil that is quickly resolved in the second piece, 

, which expresses the intensity of a fervent love. The final melody, 

, reflects on mortality, with long sustained notes and descending sequences.

Halting the descent into existentialism is Albéniz’s 

. This is a vibrant piece that whistles the charming character of the Spanish city of Cádiz with its dance-like feel and playful melodies. The programme concludes with Fernando Obradors’ 

. Drawing on traditional Spanish folk songs, we see a cultural richness married with the lyrical expressiveness of our previous arias.

Aida Pascu & Gabriel Gîțan

“Tranquillo ei posa... Com'è bello" (Lucrezia Borgia)

"Dis-moi que je suis belle" (Thaïs)

Intermezzo Op. 118 No. 2

“Sì, mi chiamano Mimì" (La Bohème)

Trois mélodies Op. 4

Suite Española No. 1 Op. 47: IV. Cádiz

Canciones clásicas españolas

Vocal Recital

Flute

Rafael Adobas Bayog

Flute Recital

Violin

Arthur Decaris

Illia Ovcharenko

Piano Recital

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Summer Gathering Concert | Concert d'été

No Livestream Available

Composer

Elise Bertrand

Elise Bertrand talks about her work as a composer, including the inspiration for Psalmodie (a world premiere that was commissioned by Classeek for her concert with us). She also discusses her teachers, mentors, and inspiration as she continues to build a thriving career as both a composer and violinist.

Elise Bertrand Interview

with Benjamin Woodroffe

We are delighted to announce our collaboration with renowned pianist David Fray and the esteemed festival l'Offrande Musicale, presenting a series of captivating concerts that promise to be truly memorable. This partnership underscores our unwavering dedication to supporting emerging classical musicians and providing them with exceptional platforms to showcase their talent on a global scale.

Commencing this musical journey is a captivating concert scheduled for 

 at the vibrant Classeek showroom in Aubonne, Switzerland, with a simultaneous live stream on 

This event marks the beginning of an enchanting chamber music series, featuring a world premiere piece by our Open Application composer winner, 

. We take immense pride in collaborating with David Fray for this concert, where exceptional talents nurtured through our Ambassador Programme will share the stage. Joining them are the accomplished clarinettist Joë Christophe and pianist 

, creating a rich and engaging musical experience for viewers.

But that's not all – save the date for the next instalment of this musical journey, set to unfold at David Fray's prestigious festival, l'Offrande Musicale, on 

 at the iconic Abbaye de l'Escaladieu in Bonnemazon, France. The opportunity for these young artists to join David at his festival underscores Classeek's commitment to supporting young artists and providing them with opportunities for recognition on a global scale, and we're thrilled to be able to offer it to Elise, Joë, and Tomoki.

Tickets for their festival performance are available for purchase now at the following link: 

Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of classical music at its finest!

Collaboration with l'Offrande Musicale & David Fray

Classeek proudly announces the selection of emerging classical musicians chosen to join the Ambassador Programme for the upcoming 2024-2025 season. This marks another exciting chapter in our ongoing commitment to providing unparalleled opportunities for young classical musicians to elevate their careers on a global stage.

Established in 2017, the Ambassador Programme continues to further our mission of discovering, following, and supporting the next generation of classical musicians. This year's cohort boasts an eclectic mix of musicians, showcasing the artistry shaping the future of classical music. 

Each artist selected for the programme gains access to a tailored one-year curriculum designed to accelerate their career trajectory. From professional photoshoots and concert video materials to career coaching and performance opportunities, this holistic approach equips young musicians with the skills and support needed to take the next step in the highly competitive classical music industry.

Here are the artists for the 2024-2025 season

The upcoming season promises an exciting journey as these young artists, selected through a mix of ambassador nominations and open applications, bring their unique perspectives and artistry to the forefront. We are also grateful to all of our Classeek Ambassadors – renowned figures Emmanuel Pahud, Gautier Capuçon, Michel Bérof, and Renaud Capuçon, as well as influential industry players Markus Wyler and Sonia Simmenauer – for their continued support of Classeek.

Stay tuned as we prepare to unveil the full programme for the upcoming season – it's going to be a year filled with fresh performances, concert programmes, and musical discoveries. Here's to the journey ahead!

Meet the Artists of the Classeek Ambassador Programme 2024-2025

Full artist lineup

Meet the Winners of the Open Application

Season 2024-2025

To those who have been asking us for an update – the wait is over! We’re excited to bring you the shortlisted candidates from our Open Application. 

But first – thank you (once again) to everyone who applied this year. We were overwhelmed with the response that we received this year and the level of dedication that so many of you have to your craft. 

Following meticulous selection and scrutiny with our 

, these are the 13 finalists that have been chosen to move on to the next stage of the Open Application process. 

 - French harpist captivating audiences worldwide with soulful playing and technical mastery, earning accolades at prestigious competitions and pursuing a Master's degree in harp performance.

 - Israeli horn player with performances in prestigious venues and accolades, including a temporary contract as deputy solo horn player with the Düsseldorf Symphony Orchestra.

 - Latvian violinist and chamber musician with acclaim on national and international stages, known for a wide-ranging repertoire and community engagement through charity concerts.

 - Belarusian pianist with international recognition, diverse repertoire, and numerous prestigious performances and awards.

 - Italian cellist with virtuosic performances, first prizes at prestigious international competitions, and extensive concert activity across Italy and abroad.

 - Israeli pianist and prize-winner at the Arthur Rubinstein International Piano Master Competition, currently pursuing a Master of Music degree at the New England Conservatory in Boston.

 - Czech violinist acclaimed for performances at esteemed venues worldwide, winner of various competitions and awards, excelling as both a soloist and chamber musician.

 - Israeli pianist with international acclaim, notable awards, performances at renowned festivals, and collaborations with esteemed musicians.

 - Serbian cellist with international recognition through prize-winning performances, extensive collaborations, and a diverse repertoire spanning classical to contemporary works.

 - German violinist with multiple first prizes at international competitions, notable performances at esteemed venues, and collaborations with renowned orchestras.

 - American composer transforming diverse influences into captivating musical portraits, with compositions gracing prestigious venues and reflecting a commitment to youth creativity.

 - American composer and pianist blending diverse musical traditions to explore human emotion, acclaimed for intricate counterpoint and evocative harmonies.

 - Australian-Chinese composer and conductor with worldwide recognition, winning prestigious awards and captivating audiences with innovative compositions exploring diverse themes.

Each finalist brings a unique perspective and interesting career path to the table, and they surely all have a bright future ahead of them. We will be announcing the winners of the Open Application soon—one instrumentalist and one composer—who will join our nominated artists as part of the 2024-25 season of our Ambassador Programme. 

Until then, click on the finalists above to browse their ClasseekLink profiles and connect with them. Or then head over to our 

 to discover more about them. And, of course, stay tuned for the grand reveal!

Meet the 2024-25 Finalists

Who among them will be joining our Ambassador Programme?

Viola

Sào Soulez Larivière

Sào Soulez Larivière talks about his selection for the Ambassador Programme through our partnership with the International Classical Music Awards (ICMA), his musical family, his inspirations and mentors, and how he approaches programming his concerts.

Sào Soulez Larivière Interview

Madelyn Kowalski

Nominated by Steven Isserlis, cellist Madelyn Kowalski joined us in concert with pianist Anna Han in March 2024 as part of the Ambassador Programme.

Madelyn Kowalski and Anna Han | Fauré and Kaija Saariaho

Romance for Cello and Piano in A Major, Op. 69

Papillon, Op. 77

Sept Papillons (Papillon I, III, VI)

Classeek Showroom performance, 7 March 2024

Madelyn Kowalski and Anna Han | Saint-Saëns - Sonata for Cello and Piano No. 2 in F Major, Op. 123

Sonata for Cello and Piano No. 2 in F Major, Op. 123

Madelyn Kowalski and Anna Han | Saint-Saëns - Romance, Op. 36

Romance, Op. 36

Madelyn Kowalski and Anna Han | Thomas Adès - Lieux retrouvés (I. Les eaux)

Lieux retrouvés (I. Les eaux)

Classeek Announces 2024-25 Open Application Jury

With applications now closed, meet the team that will choose the winners

Clarissa Bevilacqua

One of the winners of our Open Application 2023-24, violinist Clarissa Bevilacqua joined us in concert in January 2024 as part of the Ambassador Programme.

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