In loving memory of Hector Herzig (1954–2026)
On June 29, 2026, Hector Herzig passed away at the age of 71 following a brief but serious illness. With his passing, we have lost someone who had a profound impact on our association—as a visionary and a bridge-builder between music and politics.
Let us say right off the bat: The Association of Swiss Music Schools owes an enormous debt of gratitude to Hector Herzig. He helped initiate a popular initiative for greater equality of opportunity in music education, launched the Forum for Music Education, established a training program for music school directors in collaboration with the Bern University of the Arts, and supported the Association in its professionalization. We look back with gratitude on the years we spent together and extend our heartfelt condolences to Hector’s family.
After studying trumpet at the Zurich University of the Arts, he served as director of the Liestal Music School from 1991 to 2007 and continued to develop the school with a clear focus on quality. From 2006 to 2012, he served as president of the Association of Swiss Music Schools (VMS) and was one of the initiators of the «jugend+musik» popular initiative. Together with fellow advocates, he drafted the text of the initiative and campaigned for it until the Swiss people approved the new constitutional article on music education on September 23, 2012, with a historic 72.7 percent “yes” vote. This marked a milestone for music students throughout Switzerland.
Hector loved looking toward the future. He crafted visions that inspired others and set things in motion. Anyone who worked with him felt his trust: He let people take the lead and created space for them to act, rather than dictating what to do. He saw himself as an enabler. «Trial and error,» he often said, adding that success had three letters—T, U, and N. Do. Do it together. Achieve something together.
What would a music school „built from the ground up“ look like, he wondered. He was particularly driven by the desire to bring the music school, as an educational institution, closer to the elementary school. He wanted music to be valued just as much as other school subjects, and was convinced that every young person benefits from a solid musical education—regardless of whether they pursue a professional career. To him, it was clear that society needs culture, and music in particular.
The Forum for Music Education (FMB), which he co-founded in 2002, was also part of his vision. Every two years since then, music school directors, music educators, and others interested in music education have gathered for two days in Baden (AG) to exchange ideas, network, and develop new ideas together. He also played a key role in shaping the “quarte Open Label” quality management system for music schools and the professional development program for music school administrators.
His clear stance, undeterred by outside noise, could certainly be polarizing, and there were sometimes intense discussions on the executive board. It bothered him how slowly the wheels of politics sometimes turned. Nevertheless, he remained politically active even after his time with the VMS: as mayor of Langenbruck and, from 2011 to 2019, as president of the Basel-Landschaft GLP.
Hector Herzig was a man who thought big yet remained approachable. He was a friend of music and a source of support for many people and institutions. We bid him farewell with deep gratitude and respect. We will remember him as someone who repeatedly encouraged us to think big, but to stay grounded in action.
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On July 25, 2026, Hector Herzig's family is hosting a public memorial service.
25.7.2026
Reformed Church
1 Erikaweg
4438 Langenbruck
