From Basel to Fez: Swiss Ambassador's Ode to Cultural Kinship Through Sacred Music

Morocco World

22-05-2025

Fez – In the historic city of Fez, where ancient medina walls whisper centuries of cultural exchange, Swiss Ambassador to Morocco Valentin Zellweger found himself particularly moved during the 28th edition of the Fez World Sacred Music Festival.
As the crystalline harmonies of Renaissance polyphony filled the air, the ambassador saw more than just a musical performance – he witnessed the living embodiment of cultural diplomacy.
In an exclusive interview at the 28th edition of the Fez World Sacred Music Festival, Ambassador Zellweger reflected on the deep historical ties between the two countries.
'Well, first of all, it's an old relationship, if I may say,' he began. 'It's more than 100 years old and it's getting better and better. I would say today it's a very close friendship. We have a lot of exchanges and a lot of common interests. So it's a very positive view of our bilateral relations.'
The ambassador noted the unique role of cultural exchange in strengthening international connections. 'Well, you know, culture is a very important ingredient. Of course, our relations are commercial, economic, they are political, they are social. There are many Moroccans living in Switzerland and culture is the one thing that glues everything together,' Zellweger explained.
He elaborated on the power of cultural expression: 'And in culture, you can bring things to. You can express things that I think are difficult to be said or expressed in other ways. So culture is a very important ingredient for our relationship.'
Of Switzerland's participation in the festival, Zellweger shared: 'I give you the example of this evening's concert. The topic or the theme of this festival is the Renaissance. And there will be a Swiss group from a very prestigious musical school singing songs from the Renaissance. So it will be the Swiss perspective on the topic chosen by the organizers of this festival.'
Drawing parallels between the two countries, the ambassador noted: 'I see a fundamental similarity between Morocco and Switzerland. Morocco is at the crossroads of cultures, of religions, also geographically speaking. And the same goes for Switzerland. Although we're at the heart of Europe, we are composed of a German part of our culture, a French part, an Italian part. And I think what unites Morocco and Switzerland is this sense of finding an equilibrium.'
With visible enthusiasm, Zellweger shared his personal connection to the event. 'Am I excited?' he asked. 'Of course I'm excited. No, this is a fantastic opportunity and for me it's a particular pleasure. The musicians, the school that will be present this evening since it is my hometown represented tonight.'
The ambassador's personal connection to the performance added a special dimension to the evening. The performing ensemble, Zenaida, hails from Basel's prestigious Schola Cantorum Basiliensis – Zellweger's hometown.
The young but accomplished group, formed just last year by international students in the Advanced Vocal Ensemble Studies (AVES) program, brought a carefully curated selection of Franco-Flemish sacred music to Moroccan audiences.
Zenaida's program featured masterworks by Renaissance composers Josquin Desprez and Pierre de la Rue, including Desprez's contemplative 'Gaude virgo' and La Rue's majestic 'Credo (Missa cum jocunditate).'
The ensemble's innovative approach to these centuries-old compositions – blending traditional Gregorian influences with fresh polyphonic interpretations – created a musical dialogue that transcended time and geography.
From Swiss concert halls to Moroccan nights
Though newly formed, Zenaida has already established itself as a rising star in early music circles. Their emotional debut performance of 'Lamentation' at the Erasmus Klingt Festival under Björn Schmelzer's direction showcased their ability to breathe new life into ancient musical forms.
The ambassador's remarks at the Fez World Sacred Music Festival point to the bond between Morocco and Switzerland. As the two countries celebrate over a century of diplomatic relations, cultural exchanges like this festival performance prove that their partnership is evolving beyond traditional political and economic ties into something deeper and more resonant.
The presence of Swiss musicians in Fez, interpreting Renaissance melodies for Moroccan audiences, demonstrates how culture serves as a dynamic bridge between the two countries.
Just as Morocco thrives at the crossroads of civilizations and Switzerland harmonizes its multilingual heritage, their collaboration at this festival reflects a shared commitment to dialogue, understanding, and mutual appreciation.
Initiatives like the Fez Sacred Music Festival reinforce this connection with each passing year, ensuring that the relationship between Morocco and Switzerland does not merely endure, but flourishes.