Swiss musician Orphia and his band brought the vibrant sounds of French-speaking Switzerland to audiences in six Chinese cities: Beijing, Tianjin, Xi’an, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Hangzhou recently.

The tour was part of French Language Month and reflects the theme “Creation, Creativity, Innovation,” offering listeners a chance to experience Swiss culture through music.

In Beijing, Orphia’s music created a subtle connection between the tranquility of Swiss lakes and the bustling rhythm of the city. His performances, which blend synth-pop, post-punk, and electronic elements, balance intensity with emotion, transporting listeners to a world where Swiss landscapes and urban life intersect. In each city, the band adapted its set to the venue, from intimate café shows to energetic livehouses, giving every performance a unique atmosphere.

French speakers make up about 23% of Switzerland’s population, primarily in Geneva, Vaud, Neuchâtel, Jura, and parts of Fribourg and Valais. In these regions, music, theater, and visual arts are integrated into daily life. Lakeside performances, impromptu café concerts, and small theater readings create a rich cultural tapestry, giving artists and audiences opportunities to interact directly with art and creativity. Orphia’s music channels this tradition, turning every show into a sensory journey.

Orphia’s latest release, Beau Discours, continues his signature sound—raw, full-bodied, and immersive. In Geneva, his live shows attract young listeners who feel the power of the music under dim lights and pulsing beats. Each performance tells a story of the French-speaking regions of Switzerland: the rhythm of its cities, the calm of its lakes, and the creative energy of its communities.

The band’s lead singer and DJ, Loris Cappellini, delivers performances that shift effortlessly between post-punk club energy and experimental stage sounds. Meanwhile, ound engineer and tour manager Quentin Pilet, a fixture of Geneva’s cultural scene for nearly 15 years, ensures that the technical and logistical aspects of the tour run seamlessly, allowing the music to take center stage. His experience as a percussionist, DJ, and record shop owner enriches every performance behind the scenes.

Each concert invites audiences to experience more than melodies. Through rhythm, lights, and live energy, listeners get a glimpse of Switzerland’s lifestyle and creative spirit. This music tour was a journey through cities and lakes, blending reality and imagination. Following Orphia’s music, audiences could almost sense Swiss streetlights, serene waters, and the stories of a culture defined by freedom, innovation, and artistic exploration.（Rui Xu, Lu Feng）