MEET THE TEAM
Welcome to the Lied Festival in the heart of the Swiss Alps! By combining tradition, innovation, and passion, we propel the Art of Lieder into the 21st century. The RHONEFESTIVAL FÜR LIEDKUNST in Brig/Wallis/Switzerland sees itself as an innovative platform where renowned as well as emerging artists unite music and poetry in specially curated concert formats: we surprise our audience both in traditional concert halls and in the open air or in other special concert venues – with thematic concerts, interdisciplinary projects, or the staging of our international competition #LIEDINNOVATION.
The RHONEFESTIVAL FÜR LIEDKUNST is organised by the same-named non profit society, which is responsible for the financial and administrative management and execution as well as appointing artistic director. The name RHONEFESTIVAL has been legally protected as a word and individual trademark by the Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property (IGE/IPI) since June 2019.
FRANZISKA HEINZEN
FOUNDER & ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
The fascinating fusion of music and poetry in the Lied, my desire for artistic autonomy, and my passion for sharing music led to the inception of the RHONEFESTIVAL in my hometown of Brig in 2017. Captivating venues amidst the majestic Swiss Alps, the vast array of – still mostly undiscovered – repertoire as well as the inspiring artists are my infinite wellspring of motivation developing the festival. Our vision of creating a sustainable platform for musical exchange has evolved and deepened with each successive edition, thanks to the collective efforts of our entire team and our shared passion for Lieder.
BENJAMIN MEAD
CO-FOUNDER
As co-founder of the RHONEFESTIVAL, I take immense pride in our collective endeavor to cultivate a platform where music transcends borders and cultures. It is hugely inspiring, motivating and fulfilling to actively create and live the process of developing a festival behind the scenes and on the stage, implementing every idea logistically and artistically, reflecting our passion for the Art of the Lied.