16h – Interactive talk with luthier Jan Strick – Hôtel Royal
For the second year running, Crans-Montana Classics welcomes Jan Strick from the renowned stringed instrument workshop Maison Bernard in Brussels. An expert instrument maker, Jan Strick is sought after worldwide for his expertise in Italian, Flemish and French stringed instrument making. Together with his son Matthijs and Pierre Guillaume, a bow maker, he runs this venerable institution, the oldest of its kind in Europe. Instrument making is an art form that demands passion, expertise and patience. Whether building, repairing, restoring, adjusting or offering advice, the instrument maker possesses extensive skills in cabinet-making and carving; they are knowledgeable about different types of wood and their acoustic properties; they are music lovers – often musicians themselves – who possess great artistic sensitivity, rigour and dexterity.
During this session, Jan Strick will discuss the woods used in violin-making. Through a lively and interactive demonstration accompanied by Michael Guttman, violinist and musical director of Crans-Montana, the luthier will present the various types of wood used in violin-making and explain their acoustic, aesthetic and mechanical properties. For each type of wood possesses unique characteristics that influence the instrument’s tone and character. The luthier will share his expertise, the criteria that guide the choice of materials, and the various stages involved in their preparation. This event will offer everyone a unique opportunity to gain a better understanding of the close link between materials, craftsmanship and the sound quality of the violin.
18h – Free public Masterclass with Frank Braley – Hôtel Royal
The links between Crans-Montana Classics and the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel in Belgium were forged through the joint organisation of classical concerts. But this summer, CMClassics is delighted to announce chamber music masterclasses in collaboration with the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel, taking place from 28 July to 3 August in Crans-Montana. Talented young musicians will benefit from the guidance of four extraordinary teachers in the heart of the Valais Alps: Corina Belcea, Frank Braley, Miguel da Silva and Antoine Lederlin. The public will be invited to concerts, public masterclasses and informal get-togethers centred around this unique teaching experience. Belgian musical excellence on your doorstep!
You’ll have the chance to see the Master and Artists-in-Residence in action. Join us for a masterclass – a special opportunity to deepen your technical skills and musical sensitivity, which can shape an entire career.
Admission is free and open to all. Registration is recommended. Classes will be given in English.
- in our Booking Corner
- at the offices of Crans-Montana Tourism in Crans (Rue du Prado 29) or Montana (Route des Arolles 4).
