3 Questions to.. Sebastian Knauer!

Brahms spent several summers in Thun and in the Bernese Highlands. Do you think the impression the mountain scenery made on the composer is perceptible in his music?
Sebastian Knauer: Although Vienna was the centre of Johannes Brahms’ life, he was drawn towards nature, which he very much loved. He felt free, when being in nature and took it as a source of inspiration. The stunning scenery surrounding Lake Thun must have made a big impression and been a big influence on him. The music he composed there is full of warmth, grounded on his impressions of this magical place.
 
 You often combine music and text and collaborate with actress Hannelore Elsner: What is your motivation behind the combination of the two genres?
Sebastian Knauer: Words and music complete each other perfectly. Fifteen years ago, when I first did a word-music project together with Hannelore Elsner, I noticed instantly that her texts were inspired by and intensified by music. The music I played could also be experienced in a new way through the texts. This combination of music and text is very popular with the audience and I oftentimes heard that the audience was glad to experience the music in a new way. Furthermore, there are many interesting stories from the lives of composers that deserve to be put on stage through music and literature.
 
 Gstaad: What do you associate with this village?
Sebastian Knauer: Great festival, wonderful nature, fantastic restaurants, good friends and a heavy heart when departing…