Appenzeller Forum: Inspiring Music Across Generations

The Appenzeller Forum is an association dedicated to promoting and supporting cultural activities in the Appenzell region of Switzerland. It offers music and cultural experiences for all ages, ensuring that both young and old can engage with high-quality artistic performances. 

To encourage the next generation, the forum provides free access to concerts for individuals up to 25 years old, fostering a vibrant cultural scene in the Appenzell region. Each year, the association hosts around 10 concerts, featuring internationally renowned classical musicians while also supporting emerging talent. In collaboration with other cultural associations in the region, the forum plays an active role in enriching the local musical landscape.

Becoming a member of the Appenzeller Forum for CHF 50 per year comes with several benefits, including a CHF 10 discount on all concerts, early access to event details, invitations to exclusive member events and the chance to support cultural diversity in the Appenzell region. After each concert, members can enjoy an Apéro riche, meet the artists and connect with like-minded enthusiasts.

For those traveling from Zurich, Gonten is approximately a two-hour train ride or a one-hour drive. Guests who prefer to stay overnight can find a cozy retreat at Huus Löwen, the concert venue, or Huus Bär, located just across the street.

Appenzeller Forum: A Personal Experience
On March 9, I had the pleasure of attending a concert organized by the Appenzeller Forum at Huus Löwen in Gonten. After a scenic two-hour train ride from Zurich, I opted to stay overnight at Gonten Huus, a charming retreat in Appenzell. The event featured “Die Stickerin Maria Antonia Räss – eine Klangchronik” (Eng. “The Embroiderer Maria Antonia Räss – A Sound Chronicle”), based on Margrit Schriber’s 2024 novel. The story follows Maria Antonia Räss (1893–1980), an embroiderer from Inner Appenzell who left for America at 27, carrying only an English steel embroidery needle, a bolt of the finest French linen and her traditional Appenzell dress. Her exquisite embroidery was admired and worn by prominent figures such as Eleanor Roosevelt, Julie Andrews and Isaac Stern, while she maintained lifelong friendships with Coco Chanel and Walt Disney.

Andrea Wiesli, music curator of the Appenzeller Forum, transformed this novel into a captivating sound chronicle, which premiered in Gonten. The performance featured narrations by Graziella Rossi and Helmut Vogel, accompanied by pianist Andrea Wiesli and double bassist Madlaina Küng. It showcased a diverse selection of music, including the American folk songs Turkey in the Straw and Yankee Doodle, as well as Largo from Sonata Undecimo by Henry Eccles. Puttin’ on the Ritz by Irving Berlin was performed with the actors’ singing, seamlessly blending music and narration. Following the mesmerizing performance, guests enjoyed an Apéro riche, engaged with the author, took photos, had books signed and met the participating artists. This unique format fostered meaningful interactions between audiences and performers, deepening appreciation for the arts.

Upcoming events

• Sunday, April 6, 2025, 5pm: Piano Recital with Theo Gheorghiu
• Sunday, May 4, 2025, 5 pm: Swingin’ Balkan Soul featuring Goran Kovacevic (accordion) and Peter Lenzin (saxophone) 
• Sunday, June 15, 2025, 5 pm: Young Talent Concert: Kapelle Gontner Loft featuring Aurel Manser (hand organ), Marlene Gätzi (hand organ), Benjamin Rempfler (piano) and Devin Balzarek (bass)