Led by the young Lithuanian conductor Izabelė Jankauskaitė, the Swiss Youth Symphony Orchestra journeys through northern soundscapes with works by Grieg, Rautavaara and Sibelius. Grieg’s Norwegian Dances deliver folkloric vitality, Sibelius’s Fifth unfolds monumental symphonic arcs, while Rautavaara’s Cantus Arcticus blends taped birdsong with orchestral textures to conjure luminous, otherworldly atmospheres. The programme balances rhythmic clarity and expansive lyricism, inviting listeners into a slowly shifting palette of color and light that evokes cold, radiant horizons.

Invited by the OSR, Krzysztof Urbański conducts the Berner Symphonieorchester with Swiss pianist Francesco Piemontesi in a programme devoted to Johannes Brahms. The evening contrasts the Piano Concerto No. 1—born in mourning, marked by solemn intensity—with the radiant serenity of Symphony No. 2. The interpretation privileges orchestral warmth, layered textures and clear dynamic shaping, transporting listeners into an intimate, emotionally charged sound world where lyricism and dramatic surges alternate with measured poise.

Conductor Daniele Gatti leads a program of Beethoven’s Symphonies Nos. 1, 4 and 5, tracing the composer’s journey from Classical roots to a daring, individual voice. Symphony No. 1 reflects Haydn and Mozart’s clarity while hinting at Beethoven’s temperamental drive. The luminous No. 4 unfolds singular inventiveness and elegance; the No. 5 embodies struggle and triumphant affirmation. The performance emphasises orchestral textures, dramatic contrasts and rhythmic propulsion, immersing listeners in the boldness, creativity and elemental power of Beethoven’s sound world.

Flutist Emmanuel Pahud and pianist Eric Le Sage present a programme of classical and romantic gems by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Clara Schumann and Robert Schumann. Pahud’s own adaptations for flute and piano bring a fresh intimacy to the music, highlighting lyrical phrasing and subtle chamber dialogue. The recital balances clarity of line with warm, expressive colours, offering a contemplative and richly textured listening experience focused on nuanced interaction between soloist and piano.

Presented in collaboration with the Orchestre de la Suisse Romande and the Concours de Genève, this cycle highlights emerging composers and conductors in a series of high-level performances. Candidates present new works and conduct symphonic programmes, forging a direct dialogue with the orchestra and showcasing contemporary compositional voices alongside established repertoire. The events emphasize craft, mentorship and concentrated insight into compositional technique and conducting interpretation.