The Mountain Academy will take place for the fifth time in 2026. Once again, it will focus on supporting promising Swiss singer-songwriters. From April 4 to 9, 2026, the Zermatt Unplugged Festival will invite six emerging acts to take part in an exclusive and interactive program.
The first part of the Academy centers on developing new songs. In the second part, the young artists present their compositions in showcase performances to the festival audience. This year, the Academy acts will be coached by Ryan O’Reilly. The British-Irish artist is known for his poetic, narrative-driven lyrics and performances that move between folk, Americana, and indie. Through workshops, songwriting sessions, and individual coaching, participants receive professional support and benefit from Ryan’s international artistic experience as well as his teaching activities as a lecturer at BIMM University Berlin.
The Academy is complemented by a varied supporting program including masterclasses, discussion sessions, hikes, jam sessions, and concert visits. In the inspiring mountain world of Zermatt, a creative environment emerges that fosters exchange, opens up new perspectives, and sustainably strengthens artistic development.
