Sound of zai

Music and zai craftsmanship

Top-class artists under the artistic direction of Prof. Dr. Anne-May Krüger and Prof. Mike Svoboda gather in Sils to create a thematically coherent festival week in changing formations.

One of the concerts supported by zai took place on September 18, 2025, at the Hotel Waldhaus in Sils. “The musicians created a fusion of sounds, just as we try to do in the composition of new materials.” With this thought in mind, zai's Benedikt looks back on the Zeitfluss Culture Festival. “Music from different eras, surprising combinations of instruments, and an atmosphere in which the old meets the new: all of this inspires and encourages us on our journey.”

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Playfully staged

One of Till Löffler's playful surprises remains a fond memory. A performance outside at night, featuring Chiara Enderle-Samatanga. The next morning, there was a contrast: trombonist Mike Svoboda surprised the audience by playing a conch shell, followed by playful barrel organ pieces.  

For us at zai, the connection between music and innovative craftsmanship is obvious. “Music inspires us. It is a place to unwind, a language of its own. And it has always accompanied us – just like different styles of music, which are constantly reconnecting.”

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Looking through the mirror

Another highlight was the interview with German artist Jonathan Meese, who spoke about art and culture on the sidelines of the festival—and about how art can point the way to the future. “Art challenges us to look through the mirror.” What a wonderful metaphor to take with us into our everyday lives.

For us, the Zeitfluss Festival was more than just a music event. It was a space that sparked inspiration–and a reminder that courage and creativity are, at their core, about moving forward.