Ensemble Noda ǀ X. Phillips ǀ Professeur.e.s et étudiant.e.s de l’HEMU — Valais–Wallis

For this second edition of the Ensemble Noda, the invitation extended to the teachers of the HEMU – Valais-Wallis becomes a vibrant homage to this multi-faceted instrument. The central figure of the evening is Xavier Phillips, the keystone of the evening, whose stage presence will take the audience on an electrifying adventure. The flexible ensemble will accompany him according to a crescendo-like construction, moving from a soloist to an exceptional gathering of thirteen cellists. The concert opens with a new piece by Thomas Demenga, a leading figure on the Swiss musical scene, who excels as both an internationally renowned cellist and award-winning composer, most notably a recipient of one of the Swiss Music Prizes in 2025. Through a series of duos, trios and quartets, Xavier Phillips is joined by violinists and pianists from the HEMU – Valais-Wallis, criss-crossing styles and eras and showcasing the gravity, lyricism and virtuosity of this repertoire in turn. As the climax of the evening, thirteen cellos will join forces to interpret a festive transcription by Roland Pidoux, paying perfect homage to this great musician and conductor. Noda BCVS will thus play host to a soundscape where sharing, complicity and collective passion celebrate the king of instruments.