PAST EVENTS
New Series: Women in HiFi
SAT 7. June 2025
A first glimpse of the upcoming Women in HiFi series:
Prof. Joseph Tarradellas (EPFL Lausanne) & Marguerite Kudelski (Nagra)
DJ Cassy (UK/AT)
Leila Adu (US)
Talk
Performance
DJ Set
Kids Friendly
Homemade Snacks
Program
17:00 Welcome Set by DJ Cassy
18:00 Talk Prof. Tarradellas & Marguerite Kudelski
19:30 Performance by Leila Adu
20:30 Family Picture
20:30 - 22:00 Another Set by DJ Cassy
With Women in HiFi, EMOH LEEF launches a new event series dedicated to making women visible in the technical fields of music production, audio engineering, and sound sciences — where women remain underrepresented.
The Opening Conversation brings together two unique voices:
Prof. Joseph Tarradellas, Professor Emeritus at EPFL Lausanne, offers insights into the history of women in sound industries — from early pioneers to contemporary innovators. He recently published a comprehensive study on the role of women in the evolution of sound technologies, bringing to light many forgotten contributions. In dialogue with Marguerite Kudelski, member of the founding family behind Nagra, they reflect on achievements, barriers, and future perspectives for women in the audio world.
Nagra, founded in Switzerland in 1951, is a world-renowned company specializing in high-precision portable audio recorders and advanced audio technology. Nagra’s iconic devices have shaped the history of sound recording in film, music, and broadcasting. Marguerite Kudelski will bring selected devices to the event, offering a tangible glimpse into the company’s technical legacy.
Cassy (UK/AT)
DJ, Producer & Label Head Cassy is one of the most respected figures in electronic music, with a career spanning over two decades. Born in London and raised in Austria, she has held legendary residencies at Panorama Bar (Berlin), DC-10 (Ibiza), and Rex Club (Paris), shaping dancefloors around the world with her deeply soulful and dynamic sets.
Her sound blends house and techno with emotional depth and groove, always rooted in authenticity. Cassy is also the founder of Kwench Records, where she explores her creative vision as both producer and curator. Her recent releases, created with her signature 808 setup and raw vocals, mark a confident return to form.
Now based again in Austria, Cassy is embracing a new chapter—staying true to herself and the music that moves her. As she puts it: “Drop the ego. Let’s keep it real.” She will be accompanied by her son and is looking forward to explore Switzerland. A session for sure not to miss!
Leila Adu (US)
We’re proud to host composer, singer and sonic visionary Leila Adu. Described as having a “velvety, soulful voice” and compared to Nina Simone and Joanna Newsome, Adu blends electropop, avant-classical elements and raw songwriting into a powerful, genre-defying experience. Leila Adu is also an Assistant Professor of Music Technology at NYU, firmly rooted in Brooklyn’s vibrant musical and academic communities.
Fresh off her 2024 album Moonstone & Tar Sands with PUBLIQuartet and a North American tour with Neil Young & Crazy Horse, she brings her poetic, political and intimate music to Switzerland for one special night. Don’t miss this rare chance to witness her unique soundworld – live, up close, and resonant.
Bandcamp Website Instagram YouTube
The event will preview the Women in HiFi series, officially launching in autumn 2025. The program will include talks, masterclasses, workshops, showcases, and excursions. Guests will include leading mastering engineers, producers, sound artists, and innovators from Switzerland and beyond.
Hands-on sessions — from live beatmaking to sound design workshops — and visits to key audio venues such as the Swiss Museum and Centre for Electronic Music Instruments (SMEM) and PSI Audio will explore the intersection of technology, craftsmanship, and creativity.
Stay tuned for the next events of this series!
CONCERT - ONLY SHOW IN SWITZERLAND!
SUN 1. June 2025
Kahil El’Zabar’s Ethnic Heritage Ensemble - Celebrating a Half Century of Great Black Music!
DJ Set by Karmasound
Concert
DJ Set
Kids Friendly
Homemade Food
Program
17:00 Welcome DJ Set by Damián Botigué aka Karmasound
19:00 Concert
20:30 Family Picture
20:30 - 22:00 Another DJ Set by Damián Botigué aka Karmasound
50th Anniversary Celebration Tour: “Open Me: A Higher Consciousness of Sound and Spirit”
Kahil El’Zabar has been one of the deepest and most forward-thinking artists from Chicago’s renowned improvised music scene for many years. As a long-time member of the groundbreaking Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM) – an influential collective founded in 1965 to support avant-garde African-American musicians – El’Zabar created the Ethnic Heritage Ensemble in 1974. His vision was to explore the connections between African-American music, like jazz, and traditional African rhythms and instrumentation. Touring frequently throughout Europe and the United States, the group quickly earned a global reputation for its powerful and transformative performances.
Today, the Ethnic Heritage Ensemble features trumpeter Corey Wilkes, tenor saxophonist Kevin Nabors, cellist Ishmael Ali, and the charismatic Kahil El’Zabar himself on drum set, hand percussion, kalimba, and soulful vocalizations.
The Ensemble is celebrating its 50th Anniversary with the acclaimed album “Open Me: A Higher Consciousness of Sound and Spirit” (Spiritmuse Records, released March 8, 2024) and an extensive world tour. The album features a combination of El’Zabar’s original compositions and new interpretations of classics by Miles Davis and McCoy Tyner, enriched by the ensemble’s expanded instrumentation.
Their only concert in Switzerland will take place on June 1, 2025 at EMOH LEEF – a truly rare opportunity to experience this star, this icon, this phenomenon up close and personal. Meet and connect with Kahil El’Zabar in an intimate and unforgettable setting!
Damián Botigué aka Karmasound from Barcelona – brings his unique fusion of soulful rhythms, broken beat, and Latin-infused grooves to the floor. Expect deep vibes and irresistible energy – he’ll make us dance, no question.
An event not to be missed! Reserve your tickets early - space is limited.
Masterclass with Kahil on Monday, 2nd June - check it out!
WORKSHOP
MON 2. June 2025
Exclusive Workshop: Kahil El’Zabar’s Soundscapes – A Journey into Rhythm and Spirit
Masterclass
Program
18:00 Doors open
18:30 Masterclass
20:30 Family Picture
EHE Infinity Music Workshop with Kahil El’Zabar
An immersive experience in rhythm, spirit and connection
Following his exclusive concert in Neuchâtel, the legendary Kahil El’Zabar and his Ethnic Heritage Ensemble (Chicago, US) invite you to a rare and powerful musical experience at EMOH LEEF: the Infinity Music Workshop.
A percussionist, composer, poet and educator, Kahil El’Zabar is a central figure in Afrocentric spiritual jazz. He has collaborated with icons such as Stevie Wonder, Donny Hathaway, Nina Simone, Pharoah Sanders, Archie Shepp and David Murray.
A workshop like no other
Developed with the Ethnic Heritage Ensemble, this workshop goes far beyond the format of a traditional masterclass. It’s a deep dive into music as a living, collective practice – rooted in rhythm, presence and human connection.
Three core sessions structure the Workshop:
Masterclass on rhythm, ensemble work and active listening
Guided group exercises with creative instructions and improvisation
Open JAM inviting full participation and audience interaction
Inspired by Soundpainting, a real-time composing language by Walter Thompson, the workshop fosters instant creativity, musical responsiveness and interdisciplinary exchange. It welcomes musicians, singers, dancers and performers into a collective creation space shaped by directed improvisation.
Who is it for?
Everyone. Whether you’re a musician, a vocalist, a percussionist or simply curious – this workshop is open to all, with no technical background required.
Bring your own instrument and your willingness to be present, to listen, to feel and to connect.
A meaningful transmission
The Infinity Music Workshop offers a space of artistic rigour and deep humanity. Through a blend of intuitive pedagogy, spirituality and personal expression, participants gain confidence, musical presence and a new sense of artistic freedom.
This shared creative process goes beyond technical learning – it opens a space for transformation, resonance and meaningful encounter.
Solidarity pricing & registration
To keep the experience accessible while honouring the work involved, we offer solidarity-based pricing. There is a very reduced rate available for youth and emerging artists.
Places are limited. Advance registration is highly recommended.
RECORD LAUNCH
FRI 2. May 2025
Analog Africa Presents: Roots Rocking Zimbabwe - The Modern Sound of Harare' Townships 1975-1980
Introduction
Dj Set
Kids Friendly
Homemade Food
Program
17:00 Welcome Set by DJ Afreekaya
19:00 Volkan Kaya from Analog Africa presents the project & shares insights & play the tracks
20:00 Family Picture
20:00 - 22:00 Another Set by DJ Afreekaya & Friends
ANALOG AFRICA Record Launch: Roots Rocking Zimbabwe – Listening Lecture & Music Session
Analog Africa proudly presents Roots Rocking Zimbabwe – The Modern Sound of Harare’s Townships 1975–1980, a vibrant compilation celebrating the golden age of Zimbabwean music. Featuring 25 tracks, this release traces the birth of Zimbabwe’s modern music industry and captures the explosion of creativity that defined the 1970s and early 1980s—a time when rock, rumba, soul, and traditional rhythms merged into something entirely new.
Included are rare and previously unreleased recordings by legendary artists like Thomas Mapfumo, Oliver Mtukudzi, and many more.
Volkan Kaya aka Afreekaya, member of Analog Africa and tireless music researcher, will take us behind the scenes of this remarkable collection—his personal journey through Zimbabwe in search of sound and story.
Join us for an evening of deep listening, storytelling, and township grooves—raw, radiant, and unforgettable.
Take home a piece of Harare’s musical history—copies available on site!
WORKSHOP
THU 20. March 2025
Bojagi Workshop - Part of Printemps Culturel Neuchâtel
Specialists from Seoul
Workshop
Homemade Food
Program
18:00 - 20:00 Workshop Bojagi
20:00 Family Picture
20:00 - 21:30 Drinks & get to know each other
BOJAGI Workshop – The Art of Korean Wrapping
As part of Printemps Culturel Neuchâtel 2025, which this year celebrates K-Culture with events across various cultural venues, we invite you to discover Bojagi, a beautiful and meaningful Korean tradition.
Bojagi is the art of wrapping objects with carefully folded and knotted fabric, creating both functional and artistic compositions. Used in Korea for centuries to wrap gifts, carry belongings, or even as decorative pieces, Bojagi reflects the philosophy of sustainability and appreciation for craftsmanship.
In this hands-on workshop, Bojagi artists from Seoul will introduce participants to this elegant wrapping technique. No sewing is required—materials will be provided, and you will learn how to fold, tie, and arrange fabric to create stunning packages. Bring a gift to wrap and give it an extra special touch! Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to craft small fabric pouches using traditional folding and knotting methods.
This is also a unique chance to exchange ideas and insights with Korean artisans, learning firsthand about their craft, inspirations, and cultural heritage.
Participation: Minimum age 18 years
Registration required – Deadline: March 19, 2025
Sign up by sending an email to: welcome@emoh-leef.ch
JUST US #3
SAT 08. March 2025
Tête-à-tête with Aloys Perregaux & Beatmaker ArtPattern, supported by Dancer Paula Jimenez
DJ Verduras
Dance
Tête-à-tête Dialogue
Beatmaking Live Set
Dj Set
Kids Friendly
Homemade Food
Program
15:00 Welcome Set by DJ Verduras
17:00 Beats by ArtPattern, improvised dance by Paula Jimenez, thoughts and inspirations from Aloys Perregaux
18:00 Family Picture
18:15 - 22:00 Another Set by DJ Verduras
Aloys Perregaux, Painter / Villiers (NE)
Swiss painter Aloys Perregaux explores the intersection of abstraction and expression in his watercolor works, creating dynamic paintings that reflect his deep engagement with texture, movement, and color. With a background in literature, his art balances spontaneity and precision, often drawing inspiration from music, philosophy, and the rhythms of everyday life.
He will alternate with beatmaker ArtPattern and dancer Paula Jimenez, engaging in a tête-à-tête conversation with Oscar Palmadés, who will interview him about his inspirations and creative process, adding depth to this immersive artistic exchange.
ArtPattern / Neuchâtel
ArtPattern, a beatmaker for over 20 years, moves between jazz and alternative urban music. His New York-influenced style is rooted in legends like Pete Rock, DJ Premier, Diamond D, Grap Luva, and other producers who shaped hip-hop over the past three decades.
Always performing live with his Akai MPC 4000, he brings color and life to the samples he weaves into his productions. Currently preparing an instrumental album for 2025, he regularly delves into jazz, jazz fusion, and psychedelic rock from the 1960s to 1990s, searching for the essence that fuels his unique sonic explorations.
Paula Jimenez / Bilbao & Neuchâtel
Paula Jimenez is a versatile dancer whose journey began with classical ballet and evolved into urban dance, with a strong focus on House Dance. Her style is dynamic and expressive, blending technique with improvisation, always in dialogue with music and space.
Originally from Bilbao, she has performed and organized numerous events, constantly exploring new ways to connect movement with storytelling. She embraces change and discovery, engaging with dance communities wherever she goes, competing, teaching, and expanding her artistic language.
Since 2019, she has been an active force in the Neuchâtel dance scene, contributing to various performances and interdisciplinary projects. Her solo work explores the intersection of urban and traditional dance forms, often incorporating themes of identity, mythology, and social issues. Most recently, she curated and directed the first edition of the Courant D’Art festival, creating a platform for artistic exchange and experimentation.
DJ Verduras / Neuchâtel
DJ Verduras is the alias of Antoine, a passionate explorer of soulful music, moving seamlessly between jazz and house. With a deep and sincere approach, he delves into the rich textures of these genres, uncovering their most authentic and hidden facets.
As the discreet founder of the Jazzzed event series, he shares his love for timeless sounds, creating spaces where music becomes an immersive and heartfelt experience
JUST US #2
FRI 20. December 2024
Mathieu Schneider & Niklaus Troxler
DJ Ketepica
Performance
Live Set
Dj Set
Kids Friendly
Homemade Food
Program
17:00 Welcome Set by DJ Ketepica / Switzerland
19:00 Mathieu Schneider (Flute) & Niklaus Troxler (Live Taping) / Switzerland
20:00 Family Picture
20:15 Another Set by DJ Ketepica
21:30 Wrap
Mathieu Schneider, Flute / La Chaux-de-Fond
Swiss flutist and composer Mathieu Schneider is a trailblazer in blending jazz, classical, and experimental sounds. Known for his inventive use of looping techniques and instruments like the EWI, he creates rich, layered soundscapes that push the boundaries of traditional flute playing. Drawing on influences from diverse genres and his classical roots, Schneider’s performances captivate with their energy and originality.
He will interact with Niklaus Troxler, who will perform a Live Taping Session, creating a unique and immersive artistic experience.
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Niklaus Troxler, Live Taping / Willisau & Berlin
Internationally acclaimed graphic designer and artist Niklaus Troxler is celebrated for his iconic jazz-inspired works and as the founder of the renowned Willisau Jazz Festival. His bold, dynamic designs have become synonymous with the intersection of music and visual art, earning him global recognition and numerous accolades.
Niklaus will perform a Live Taping Session, showcasing his innovative approach to creating visual art in real-time. Combining his deep connection to jazz with his unique artistic vision, this performance promises an unforgettable blend of sound and imagery.
DJ Ketepica based in Neuchâtel, is renowned for his eclectic sets that traverse genres such as high jazz, modern soul, broken beats, and Brazilian funk fusion. With over two decades in the music scene, he co-founded the collective Soul Sociedad and established the label INMELO MUSIC, which releases both forgotten legendary works and contemporary musical gems. His passion for diverse musical traditions leads him to explore sounds worldwide, resulting in dynamic DJ sets that resonate with heart, body, and soul.
JUST US #1
FRI 06. December 2024
James Iwa
DJ Ahmet aka MrHeist
Listening Session
Live Set
Dj Set
Kids Friendly
Homemade Food
Program
17:00 Welcome Set by DJ Ahmet aka MrHeist / France
19:00 James Iwa / Bienne
20:00 Family Picture
20:15 Another Set by DJ Ahmet aka MrHeist
21:30 Wrap
James Iwa, also known as Jérémie Krüttli, is a Swiss music producer and multi-instrumentalist based in Biel/Bienne, Switzerland. His music seamlessly blends Neo-Soul, funk, and contemporary sounds, drawing inspiration from legendary artists like D’Angelo, J Dilla, and Erykah Badu, as well as iconic 70s funk records and modern genres.
James made his mark with his debut album Beamin’ in 2021, followed by The Stars With You in 2022. Both projects featured international collaborations and solidified his reputation as a rising star in the Neo-Soul and funk scene. Currently, he is working on exciting new projects with artists such as Miss C-Line, Jo Mayasi, David Mrakpor, Anatole Muster, and more.
At this solo event, attendees will enjoy a rare, behind-the-scenes look at his creative process. From initial inspiration to polished production, James will demonstrate how he crafts his distinctive sound while sharing insights into his artistic journey. And, of course, expect to hear some incredible music along the way.
DJ Ahmet aka MrHeist from France brings his deep passion for hip-hop and rap beats to EMOH LEEF. Skilled, experienced, and open to experimentation, he’s ready to share the unmatched swag of his musical treasures.
Grand Opening Celebration!
SAT 23. November 2024 Welcome to EMOH LEEF!
Art Performance
Beat Maker
Vernissage
Concerts
Kids friendly
EMOH LEEF is excited to invite you to celebrate the opening of its Atelier with a program full of diverse events and activities. Looking forward to welcome you!
Program
14:00 Doors Open! DJs Jaziel / Bilbao
14:45 Welcome & Presentation
15:00 Vernissage “La Source de Prébarreau”
16:00 Live Set of Ruby Francis / London
17:15 Concert & Live Taping Performance with Niklaus Troxler & Béatrice Graf / Willisau & Geneva
18:15 Family Picture
18:45 Beats Session with SEBB BASH / Lausanne
19:30 Dinner
20:00 Danceful DJs Jaziel / Bilbao
21:30 Wrap
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DJ Sets Jaziel / Bilbao
This dynamic duo with not only an incredible collection of soulful records but also some of the sweetest vibes around, will be spinning throughout the event. Bringing the sun of the south and plenty of vinyls, they’ll keep the energy flowing from start to finish.
Ruby Francis / London
For the first time in Switzerland, EMOH LEEF proudly welcomes Ruby for an exclusive solo set! The dynamic London-based singer, songwriter, and producer blends neo-soul, R&B, and electronic sounds. With her soulful vocals and experimental beats inspired by 90s R&B, jazz, and funk, Ruby creates smooth grooves and modern production with a nostalgic edge. Don’t miss this captivating performance!
Niklaus Troxler & Beatrice Graf / Willisau & Geneva
EMOH LEEF is honored to receive support from one of the most renowned figures in both Swiss graphic design and jazz, Niklaus Troxler. Internationally known for his work and for founding the Willisau Jazz Festival, Troxler will perform a Live Taping Session, creating a collaborative art piece with Beatrice Graf, a versatile drummer and composer who has collaborated with top jazz, rock, and world music artists.
Sebb Bash / Lausanne
Renowned Swiss DJ and producer Sebb Bash has collaborated with international artists such as The Alchemist and Children of Zeus from Manchester. He gained prominence in the 1990s with his show “Métissages” and won the Swiss Music Prize in 2019. At EMOH LEEF, he will perform a beatmaking session, demonstrating his ability to blend diverse sounds and create live beats, highlighting his expertise in music production.
Vernissage “La source de Prébarreau”
The Inside Out Project, created by French street artist JR, is the largest global participatory art project.
Join EMOH LEEF as we are bringing this global movement to Neuchâtel with a striking temporary installation of over 50 large-scale black-and-white portraits, showcasing the faces of people living, working, and passing through the Prébarreau district. Displayed on a prominent wall directly across from the Atelier, this project will create a powerful cultural moment, connecting our local community to a worldwide artistic expression.
