Worlds Beyond 2026: Brassology
14th Hirschmann Masterclass
Experiencing Brass Anew
August 17–23, 2026
Burgundy and Switzerland
August 17–23, 2026
Burgundy and Switzerland
Would you like to be part of a musical journey where classical structures merge with jazz, urban rhythms, and global sounds? Brassology opens doors to new sonic worlds – inviting you to expand your perspective on brass instruments.
At the heart of this project lies the support of young, highly gifted brass players at an international top level. Master’s students and advanced talents will have the unique opportunity to work side by side with world-renowned artists such as David Taylor (bass trombone), Alex Sipiagin (trumpet), and Sergej Nakariakov (trumpet & flugelhorn). Under the artistic direction of Daniel Schnyder, new programs will be created through intensive rehearsals, creative collaboration, and mutual inspiration.
The project serves as a bridge between education and professional practice. The young musicians will work on demanding pieces and arrangements – ranging from baroque and classical compositions to jazz-influenced and globally inspired works – and present them in different ensemble formations, from duo to tentet. Performances at renowned festivals will give them valuable stage experience, international visibility, and the chance to build sustainable networks.
In Burgundy and Switzerland
CHF 200.–
including accommodation & meals
Deadline: 30. July 2026
A special focus is placed on artistic personality development: virtuosity, expressiveness, and independence are strengthened, while openness to improvisation and stylistic diversity is fostered. Working with masters allows direct learning at the highest level and provides insights into professional practices, touring, and repertoire design.
Thus, the project creates a laboratory of sonic imagination, fostering excellence and guiding the next generation of musicians on their way into the international professional world. At the same time, it opens the door to a contemporary brass aesthetic that is urban, global, and without boundaries – inspiring both audiences and young talents alike.
Born in Zurich in 1961, Daniel Schnyder has lived in New York for many years. He studied at Berklee College of Music in Boston and is today one of the most widely performed living Swiss composers. His work includes operas, orchestral and chamber music, as well as jazz and crossover compositions. He has collaborated with orchestras such as the NDR Elbphilharmonie, the Tonhalle Orchestra Zurich, the Berlin Philharmonic Brass, and leading soloists worldwide. Awarded, among others, the Cultural Prize of the City of Zurich, Schnyder fuses classical music, jazz, and global styles into a distinctive musical language.
Valérie Probst studied literature in Paris and cultural and arts management in Winterthur. She has long-standing experience in organizing and managing international cultural projects and festivals, and she led the Swiss Youth Music Competition Foundation for 18 years. In 2020, she founded the association Loc.Artium and has since been responsible for the artistic and organizational implementation of the Hirschmann Masterclasses. Under her leadership, the project has established itself in the Swiss cultural landscape and will be held for the 14th time in 2026. Her focus lies in supporting young musicians, building international networks, and connecting education with professional concert practice.