In 2026–2027, Collège Champittet marks a significant milestone: the 10th anniversary of its Cultural Season. Over the past decade, the school has welcomed some of the greatest performing artists in classical music today to its own chapel in Pully. Lea Desandre, Martin Fröst, The King's Singers, and Concerto Köln are just a few of the world-class talents who have graced the stage and delighted the community. The season was inaugurated with a marvellous performance fit for the occasion: 'Un humour de Proust'. Award-winning actor, writer, and director Denis Podalydès, a member of the Comédie-Française, brought to life the work of Marcel Proust with both humour and heart. His reading of select passages highlighted the irony, wit, and humanity central to Proust's universe, while the graceful accompaniment of renowned pianist Jean-Philippe Collard created a magnificent dialogue between literature and music. As one teacher commented the next day, 'Everyone who decided not to go to bed early last night was treated to a moment of pure magic at Collège Champittet in the company of two giants: Marcel Proust and Denis Podalydès, accompanied by the virtuoso playing of the marvellous Jean-Philippe Collard.' While visiting the school, Denis Podalydès also happened to recognise a few familiar faces in one of the Palmares from the class of 1980, a charming reminder that Champitteans really are everywhere.
Ten years ago, Academic Director Daniel Zumbrunnen launched the first Cultural Season with one purpose: to make culture accessible to all, giving students, families, and the wider community the opportunity to encounter artists and works that spark curiosity and open minds. That conviction is still going strong today. The cultural programme has become an important touchstone not only for Collège Champittet but for the entire surrounding community, enriching lives through moments of wonder, reflection, and connection. As the school marks its 10th anniversary, it celebrates not only the remarkable artists who have joined over the years but also the shared love of culture that continues to bring the community together. The season has featured a diverse array of performers, from Lea Desandre to Martin Fröst, The King's Singers, and Concerto Köln, each adding a unique chapter to the school's cultural legacy. Looking ahead, the school looks forward to many more years of culture and inspiration and eagerly anticipates its next concert, which will feature one of the world's greatest pianists, Alexandre Tharaud, performing in the chapel. The anniversary has also garnered media attention, with a recent article in 24 heures highlighting the cultural season's success and its role in the community.
