Paloma So on the Transformative Power of Verbier

Violinist Paloma So views the Verbier Festival as a “musical paradise,” a unique ecosystem where the world’s most elite artists, students, and fans converge to “take over” the town in a shared celebration of music. After first attending the Verbier Academy two years ago, So returned last year as a featured artist, finding that the festival’s true value lies in the profound sense of community and the proximity to the industry’s “best ears.”For So, the experience is a masterclass in professional discipline. Observing how top-tier musicians organize their rehearsals, act in real-time on stage, and reflect on their performances, whether through quiet study or social decompression. has fundamentally reshaped her own approach. She credits these short but intense encounters with making her a significantly better chamber musician, viewing music-making as a process of reflecting everything in one’s environment.This summer, So returns to the Alps to explore the “complex and intricate” quartets of Raykhelson and Medtner. These relatively under-programmed works offer a fresh challenge, maintaining a sheer elegance that So is eager to bring to life alongside her peers. As she prepares for this latest chapter, she remains driven by the anticipation of how the Verbier community will continue to transform her artistry.Interviewed on May 2nd, 2025 at the Xinghai Concert Hall in Guangzhou, China. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit klassikom.substack.com