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Daniel Hope to Lead Menuhin Festival Gstaad into New Era

festival-fair · 2026-08-06

The Menuhin Festival Gstaad, one of Switzerland's most prestigious classical music festivals, is undergoing a leadership transition. After two decades under the direction of Christoph Müller, the festival will see a change in artistic leadership. Daniel Hope, the renowned British violinist, is set to take over the artistic direction, aiming to position the festival for the future. The festival, which is considered the most important classical music event in Switzerland after Lucerne, is navigating between tourism and higher artistic ambitions. As the era of Christoph Müller comes to an end, several strategic decisions are being made to shape the festival's future direction. Hope's vision includes expanding the festival's global reach and integrating innovative programming while maintaining its core classical music identity. The transition marks a significant moment for the festival, which has been a cornerstone of Switzerland's cultural landscape.

Key facts

  • Menuhin Festival Gstaad is undergoing a leadership change.
  • Christoph Müller has led the festival for two decades.
  • Daniel Hope will take over as artistic director.
  • The festival is considered the most important classical music festival in Switzerland after Lucerne.
  • The transition involves strategic decisions about the festival's future.
  • Hope aims to lead the festival into the future with a global perspective.
  • The festival balances tourism with higher artistic aspirations.
  • The change occurs after two decades of Müller's leadership.

Entities

Artists

  • Daniel Hope

Institutions

  • Menuhin Festival Gstaad

Locations

  • Gstaad
  • Switzerland
  • Lucerne

Sources