In the shadow of diplomatic missions and historic decisions, a unique ensemble rises—not from protocol, but from passion. The Orchestre des Nations, founded in Geneva, is more than an orchestra. It is a symbol. A living, breathing metaphor for international cooperation, composed of musicians from over twenty nationalities. Professionals, gifted amateurs, civil society members, and UN staff come together, united by one language: music.
In a world often divided by borders and ideologies, music reminds us of what we share. It transcends politics, languages, and cultures. Since 2011, the Orchestre des Nations has offered audiences in Geneva and abroad a musical experience that goes beyond aesthetics. Under the direction of its founder—former solo bass clarinetist of the Orchestre de la Suisse Romande and professor of chamber music at Geneva’s Haute école de musique—the ensemble is rooted in both artistic excellence and humanist ideals.
Among recent highlights, a concert at Victoria Hall for International Women’s Day celebrated young female soloists from around the globe, with a world premiere by composer Élise Bertrand. A moving evening, resonating with the orchestra’s mission to elevate voices and build bridges.
Now, a new landmark event is approaching. On 5 June, 2025, to mark World Environment Day, the Orchestre des Nations will present ‘Our Home – A Global Concert for the Environment’ at Victoria Hall. This will be the first official concert in Geneva dedicated to this United Nations day, organized in collaboration with the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Diplomatic Club of Geneva.
The concert will explore the interconnected challenges of the Triple Planetary Crisis—climate, biodiversity, and pollution—through a unique, three-dimensional experience. As guest of honor, Yann Arthus-Bertrand will lend his breathtaking visual testimony, with projected photographs that speak silently to the soul. The orchestra, under Antoine Marguier’s baton, will present a resonant, meaningful repertoire reflecting what is at stake—and what must be preserved. Axelle Saint-Cirel, the acclaimed mezzo-soprano who moved the world at the opening of the Paris Olympic Games, will bring her voice to this vision of harmony between humanity and nature.
More than a concert, ‘Our Home’ is a call. A call to action, to attention, and to wonder, as it is often beauty that inspires us to protect. The evening will gather representatives of international Geneva, local and federal government, and (funding permitting) the wider public.
As Alfonso Gomez, Geneva’s Administrative Councillor for Environment and Territory, recently affirmed: “The Orchestre des Nations embodies the very spirit of Geneva— a place of dialogue, excellence, and humanity.”
But beyond accolades and events, what truly defines the Orchestre des Nations is its soul. In rehearsals and in performance, musicians engage in an unspoken diplomacy: built on listening, respect, and harmony. Because diplomacy is not always spoken—sometimes, it is played.
At a time when the world needs new ways to connect, this orchestra offers a rare voice. A voice that carries, and continues to resonate, long after the final note.
For your diary
Our home – World Environmental Concert
Thursday, 5 June, 2025, 8:00 PM – Victoria Hall, Geneva
In celebration of World Environment Day
With Antoine Marguier (conductor), Yann Arthus-Bertrand (guest of honor), and Axelle Saint-Cirel (mezzo-soprano)
Music by Sibelius, Berlioz, Elgar, Tchaikovsky, Vaughan Williams & Ravel
One-hour concert without intermission — Tickets available at the Ville de Genève ticket offices and Maison des arts du Grütli