Top of the MOuntain Concerts
Ischgl: Pioneer of music acts in the Alps
The legendary Top of the Mountain Concerts have made Ischgl the Pioneer of music acts in the Alps over the past three decades. Since 1994/95, international megastars have taken to the stage in the heart of a snow-covered mountain world, creating performances that are unique worldwide and transforming both the Idalp and the village centre of Ischgl into spectacular event venues. From Elton John on the very first snow stage to Robbie Williams in a snowstorm and Helene Fischer’s record-breaking audience – these concerts have written music history and set new standards for alpine live experiences.
The history of the Top of the Mountain concerts
THE BIRTH OF AN IDEA
DARING MEETS INNOVATION
What is now a staple of the international event calendar began as a bold experiment. In the winter of 1994/95, Ischgl set out to offer more than perfectly groomed slopes and breathtaking mountain scenery. The vision: a concert at over 2,000 metres, nestled within the snow-covered landscape of the Silvretta. The execution? Risky, as the technical demands, logistical challenges, and unpredictable weather posed significant hurdles. But the courage paid off.
Elton John, the first major star to perform, brought his unmistakable energy to the thin mountain air. His success laid the foundation for a new era: Ischgl became not only a hotspot for winter sports but also a destination for world-class music.
Over the years, more editions of the Top of the Mountain concerts were introduced. The Easter Concert, held annually on Easter Sunday, the Opening Concert, marking the start of the winter season every November, and the Spring Concert, which kicks off the Spring Blanc event series, were added to the roster.
THE MOUNTAIN BECOMES A STAGE
STARS AND HIGHLIGHTS OF THE PAST 30 YEARS
The list of artists who have performed reads like a who’s who of music history. International icons like Diana Ross, Lionel Richie, Rihanna, and Bob Dylan have mesmerised audiences in the Silvretta Arena. One of the most memorable moments came in 2014 when Robbie Williams braved a heavy snowstorm and freezing temperatures to electrify fans with “Let Me Entertain You.”
Other standout performances include Katy Perry, Lenny Kravitz, and Deep Purple. Katy Perry made waves in 2009 when she donned a Santa Claus costume and kissed a girl from the front row – a moment that remains legendary to this day. Lenny Kravitz, famous for his connection with the audience, strolled through the crowd during his 2012 concert and signed off with the words: “Peace and good skiing.”
German acts like Helene Fischer, Die Söhne Mannheims, Sportfreunde Stiller, and more recently Nina Chuba, have proven that the mountain stage offers something for every musical taste. Helene Fischer set an unbroken record in 2018, drawing 26,000 visitors to the mountain.
