The International Music Festival Sion Valais was created more than 45 years ago and is one of the major classical music festivals in Switzerland. It takes places every year during the months of August and September. Every two years, the Sion Festival organizes an International Violon Competition presided by Maestro Shlomo Mintz.
The Sion Festival is…
… the violon, its guest of honour. Each summer, the city of Sion is filled with the sound of the violin. The Festival was founded by the great violinist and pedagogue Tibor Varga. In 2002, another fantastic violinist became its Artistic Director: Maestro Shlomo Mintz. Over the years, Sion, Capital of the Valais, has gradually become “Capital of the Violin”!
… an eclectic and varied program. The Sion Festival offers a top quality programme enriched by exhibitions and conferences - an interchange between recitals, chamber music and choir concerts. Each year the Sion Festival innovates by organizing concerts in different styles: jazz, fado, gypsy music... An exciting programme to be discovered immediately!
… an unconditional support towards youth. The Sion Festival encourages connections and exchanges between young promising artists and internationally renowned musicians. Its International Violin Competition, recognized worldwide, reveals future great soloists and helps promote them.
Sion Valais, a magical place
The breath-taking scenery of Sion and its surrounding region contributes to the Festival's magical atmosphere. From the heart of the old town of Sion to the top of the Swiss Alps, the Festival will lead you through some of the most beautiful panoramas in Switzerland!
The cradle of the Festival is the city of Sion, a medieval city surrounded by mountains, vineyards and castles. A warm and friendly atmosphere, animated streets and markets, as well as a mild and sunny climate all contribute in making Sion an ideal place for a summer music festival. Indeed, what could be better than a fantastic concert in a quaint medieval church or theatre after an afternoon walking in the beautiful sunny vineyards of the region?
The region of Sion offers a great choice of activities which will contribute to making your stay in the Valais an unforgettable experience. For more information regarding cultural and tourist activities in Sion and its surroundings, please check out the internet page of the Sion Tourist Office: www.siontourisme.ch
