HEMU – Valais-Wallis
In the heart of the Rhône Valley in the Swiss Alps, the town of Sion is home to the HEMU – Valais-Wallis. Dominated by two emblematic castles, Valère and Tourbillon, Sion stands out for its dynamism, friendliness, sunny climate, nature and rich historical heritage.
A city of culture and encounters, Sion boasts numerous theaters, cultural centers, museums and galleries. Several festivals enliven the summer season: the classical music festival and the Tibor Varga international violin competition, the Valère organ festival and, more recently, Sion sous les étoiles and the Irish Festival.
Its medieval old town is one of the liveliest and best-preserved in Switzerland. It is home to the world's oldest playable organ, installed in the Eglise de Valère nearly 600 years ago.
The legacy of Hungarian violinist Tibor Varga and the cohabitation with the Academy of Music that bears his name make this site a center of excellence in the field of strings.
Its internationally renowned teaching staff offers top-level Bachelor's and Master's courses in classical music, including violin, viola, cello and double bass, as well as guitar, which is taught exclusively at this HEMU site.
In October 2024, the HEMU – Valais-Wallis site moved into the new Pôle Musique Sion. This collaborative project brings together six musical partners and aims to become a dynamic music centre.
The HEMU – Valais-Wallis is one of the teaching sites of the HEMU – Haute École de Musique.