Ensemble Phœnix Basel

“Stubete am See”

Right on the shores of Lake Zurich, the “Stubete am See” festival will celebrate its 10th edition from August 21–23, 2026, at the Tonhalle Zurich. This is where New Swiss Folk Music comes to life: In 22 concerts, 27 ensembles from all over Switzerland and neighboring countries will reinterpret traditional sounds, giving rise to innovative, modern music. Numerous premieres, never-before-heard combinations, and new compositions make every “Stubete am See” a unique experience. A rich supporting program featuring yodeling and dance classes, children’s activities, spontaneous dance music with our “Störmusizierende” (impromptu musicians), and culinary offerings complements the festival’s concert program.

August 23, 2026, 1:00 p.m.:

“Ensemble Phoenix Basel & Hornroh Modern Alphorn Quartet”

The use of signal horns has been a living tradition in many mountainous regions of Asia and Europe for centuries. Today, this is reason enough for cultural cross-connections. In her work, Singaporean composer Joey Tan combines the traditional alphorn with a contemporary music ensemble. The result is a dialogue that simultaneously explores sonic origins and new perspectives. In Jaggi’s work, the alphorn is stripped of specific local influences; the horns are treated as archaic, primordial instruments. Building on the foundation of the horns, a five-part sonic topography emerges, which the ensemble takes up and places in ever-changing, expanding contexts. The two new works are embedded within a framework of three short blocks of traditional music for alphorn quartet.

Program:

– Traditional alphorn music

– Joey Tan (*1997, Singapore):
“our children are coming, and they are not afraid” for Hornroh Modern Alphorn Quartet and ensemble (2025/2026)

– Traditional alphorn music

– Martin Jaggi (*1978, Switzerland):
“Fichten” [spruce trees] for Hornroh Modern Alphorn Quartet and ensemble (2026)

– Traditional alphorn music

Program