The Association

The Loc.Artium association was founded in 2020 with the aim of supporting young musical talents in Switzerland through innovative, interdisciplinary as well as national and international projects.

Its activities are primarily aimed at music students at an advanced stage of their studies, as well as emerging talents from across Switzerland. They are based on close collaborations with renowned festivals, within whose framework final concerts represent the highlights of each project.

Thanks to the support of committed foundations such as the Hirschmann Foundation, Accentus Foundation, FONDATION SUISA and the Ruth Burkhalter Foundation for the Promotion of Young Musical Talents, Loc.Artium has realised numerous high-level masterclasses and artistic projects since its inception.

For its projects, Loc.Artium collaborates with established professionals from the music world. Since the launch of its masterclasses, the association has been supported by numerous composers, particularly from Switzerland:

Fabian Müller, Klaus Ospald, Xavier Dayer, Philippe Racine, Jörg Widmann, Richard Dubugnon, Oscar Bianchi, Daniel Schnyder, Till Löffler, Felix Baumann, Daniel Fueter.

The masterclasses are further designed and guided by renowned musicians and experienced educators. The interaction between composers, performers and young participants creates a stimulating working environment.

Pedagogical and Artistic Approach

Chamber music forms the guiding thread of all Loc.Artium activities. Regardless of context, the focus lies on performing in small ensembles.

Within this framework, technique, interpretation, creativity and expressiveness are developed, along with stage presence and improvisational skills. The project leadership responds to the individual needs of participants and supports them in fully developing their potential.

Another key element is artistic and technical interdisciplinarity: light and video art, digital tools, as well as disciplines such as literature (e.g. readings) and dance are regularly integrated.

Projects take place in carefully selected and inspiring locations that encourage focused work and intensive exchange. In this way, formative experiences emerge that contribute significantly to the personal and artistic development of young talents.

In summary

Funding

Loc.Artium’s projects are financed through support from foundations, patrons and public institutions, complemented by own resources (ticket sales, contributions from the circle of friends and participation fees).

The diversity of project locations and themes reflects both the dynamic nature of musicians’ careers and the profiles of supporting institutions. For each partner, tailor-made projects are developed that align with their values and target audiences. This approach has proven successful and is now a defining element of Loc.Artium’s artistic identity.

Board of the Association Loc.Artium

Valérie Probst, President

Valérie Probst is a Swiss-French cultural manager specialising in the promotion of young musical talents. From 2008 to 2025, she served as Director of the Swiss Youth Music Competition, where she developed the composition competition as well as the jazz & pop competitions and initiated international masterclasses. She is also Managing Director of the Ruth Burkhalter Foundation and, since 2025, Head of the Artistic Office of the Zurich Music Foundation.

Marianne Engeloch, Treasurer

Marianne Engeloch lives in Bern. A former teacher, she has always been passionately committed to supporting young people and has, together with her music-loving husband, supported young musicians for many years.

Erich Zumstein, Member

Erich Zumstein is Director of the Zurich Music School and Conservatory (MKZ). He contributes extensive experience in the strategic management of cultural institutions and a strong commitment to the promotion of young musical talent.

Founding Members

Maurice Steger, Alfons Loher, Rudolph Engeloch, Alice Loher