The Exhibition in Tremezzina, Lake Como (Italy)
The exhibition “Artur Schnabel and Family: A Musical Legacy in Tremezzina, Lake Como”, held in 2021 at the Museo del Paesaggio del Lago di Como, celebrated one of the most distinguished musical dynasties of the 20th century, bringing together music and history in the enchanting setting of Lake Como. The exhibition took visitors on a journey through the lives and contributions of the Schnabel family, whose legacy is deeply connected to the cultural and musical heritage of the region.
For centuries, the stunning beauty of Lake Como has been the source of inspiration for great artists from around the world. Nestled within this picturesque landscape, Lake Como’s allure has captured the imaginations of writers, painters and musicians, drawing them to its tranquil shores and enchanting vistas.
Among those who found inspiration amidst the splendor of Lake Como were the Schnabel family. For them, this idyllic corner of the world, particularly the town of Tremezzina, held a profoundly special significance.
In 1932, during a summer vacation in Switzerland, Therese and Artur Schnabel visited friends on Lake Como and were captivated by its beauty. Shortly after, with the rise of the Nazi regime in Germany, they decided to leave Berlin and settled in Tremezzo, renting Villa Ginetta. During the 1930s, the villa became a meeting place for music students from all over the world who attended the summer courses organized by the Schnabels until 1938.
In 1939, due to the outbreak of World War II, the family emigrated to the United States, but they always intended to return to Europe. Artur and Therese planned to settle permanently on Lake Como, but Artur passed away in 1951. Therese honored her husband’s wish and lived in Tremezzo until her death in 1959. The couple’s son, Karl Ulrich, along with his wife Helen, continued the musical tradition, teaching and organizing concerts at the lake. The family’s descendants have kept their deep connection to both music and the Tremezzina region, helping preserve the family’s legacy through the Schnabel Music Foundation.
A video that offers a unique glimpse into the life and musical legacy of the Schnabel family was created for the exhibition. It highlights their deep connection to Lake Como, their artistic achievements, and the impact they had on generations of musicians.
Don’t miss this opportunity to explore their fascinating story through this special visual presentation.
The exhibition booklet provides a comprehensive insight into “Artur Schnabel and Family: A Musical Legacy in Tremezzina, Lake Como.” It features contributions from the exhibition’s curators, the organizers of the LacMus Festival, local authorities, and representatives of the Schnabel family. The booklet provides a deeper understanding of the family’s history, their significant role in the world of music, and their lasting connection to Lake Como. Through a combination of historical research and personal reflections, it enriches the visitor’s experience, bringing the story of the Schnabel family to life.
The exhibition panels, created through extensive research in Italian historical archives and with documents provided by Ann and François Mottier as well as Peter Schnabel, offer a captivating glimpse into the rich legacy of the Schnabel family. These panels showcase rare letters, photographs, and personal items that highlight the family’s profound impact on the world of music, as well as their deep connection to Lake Como. Through this visual journey, visitors can explore the historical context and personal stories behind one of the most influential musical dynasties of the 20th century.
The exhibition “Artur Schnabel and Family: A Musical Legacy in Tremezzina, Lake Como” was organized as part of the LacMus Festival, an international classical music festival held annually during the summer in Tremezzina, on the shores of Lake Como. The festival celebrates the beauty of music in harmony with the stunning landscape of the lake, attracting world-class musicians and audiences alike.
The Schnabel Music Foundation has always been a proud supporter of the LacMus Festival, continuing the family’s long-standing tradition of fostering musical excellence and cultural enrichment in the region. This collaboration perfectly honors the deep connection between the Schnabel family and Lake Como, making the exhibition a highlight of the festival’s program.
© Photos by Daniele Marucci
