A Journey of Music and Resilience: How ISZL Nurtured a Young Musician’s Dreams

ISZL Community

From the Classroom to the Stage
In 2003, George Marti, a young student with a love for music, joined ISZL in Grade 3. His journey would eventually take him from a Swiss classroom to stages around the world. Despite facing the challenge of being visually impaired, George’s musical talent shone brightly. Guided by his perfect pitch, remarkable memory, and the encouragement of teachers Lynne Holian and Missy Malcarny, George embraced his love of music.

Building Confidence and Resilience at ISZL
ISZL’s commitment to developing confidence, collaboration, and resilience was key to George’s growth as both a musician and an individual. By the time he graduated in 2009, George was ready for the next step: studying Jazz trombone at Hochschule Luzern (HSLU). His dedication soon earned him a Fulbright Scholarship to the Berklee College of Music in Boston. Moving there at 20, he quickly found his footing, building on the values he developed at ISZL. Reflecting on this time, he recalls, “everything was possible.”

Academic Excellence and Musical Achievements in Boston
At Berklee, George excelled both academically and musically, making the Dean’s List three times. After his time in Boston, he returned to Switzerland to complete his Swiss Bachelor’s Degree with honours at Zürcher Hochschule der Künste (ZHDK). His love for music then took him back to Berklee, this time to the Valencia Campus in Spain, where he completed his first Master’s in Contemporary Performance, graduating Cum Laude.

A Flourishing Career in Switzerland
Returning to Switzerland, George’s musical career thrived. He played in jazz and salsa concerts, performed in churches, and contributed to the creation of Jazzkirche Kreis 9 in Zürich. His dedication earned him the Hirschmann Stipendium for his achievements and social engagement. He founded a salsa band, raised over CHF 2,000 for a school in Madrid supporting children with disabilities, and, in 2021, earned a second Master’s in Music Pedagogy at ZHDK.

Creating New Projects and Giving Back to the Community
Today, George shares his love of music through teaching at his own music atelier in Zug and at Musikschule Zug. His innovative projects, blending creativity and technology, include live performances integrating AI and storytelling. George’s journey — from mastering trombone and Alphorn to fostering community engagement — reflects ISZL’s vision of lifelong learning.

Reflecting on His ISZL Roots
Looking back on his time at ISZL, George shares, “Martin and Antonia Latter built an exceptional, outstanding school. I am so grateful for the opportunity to have been there — it has been my biggest chance in life so far.” For many years, George returned to ISZL to open International Day with his Alphorn, a role he describes as “amazing, unique, and great.

A Lasting Legacy of Passion and Perseverance
George’s journey underscores the power of a supportive, inclusive education that can open doors and inspire a life filled with passion, resilience, and gratitude. ISZL is proud to have been a part of his story and to continue nurturing the dreams of young musicians and learners for years to come.

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