In 2026, LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura will celebrate its first ten years with an original initiative that combines creativity, identity, and innovation: a composition competition dedicated to the creation of the cultural center's new sound signal. A small yet meaningful gesture, it invites the public to take a seat, transformed into a symbol of recognition and welcome.
The call for proposals “The sound of LAC” was born with the aim of finding a short, evocative and distinctive sound, capable of representing the personality of LAC and the city of Lugano: elegant, contemporary, international.
A signal that invites, not commands
The idea behind the competition is to rethink the function of the traditional hall signal. Rather than a simple technical cue, the LAC aims to offer a moment of sonic transition between waiting and listening, between the buzz of the foyer and the silence of the hall. The new sound must be recognizable yet discreet, capable of setting the mood without interrupting.
The selection will be led by an exceptional jury chaired by artist and sound theorist Steve Goodman (aka Kode9) , supported by prominent figures such as Father Antonio Puliggi , Andrea Amarante , Carmelo Rifici , Letizia Ragaglia , Marco Kohler , and Günther Giovannoni . A group of Musica subscribers and LAC+ members will also be involved in an advisory capacity, to ensure a shared and representative selection.
Requirements and rewards
The composition competition is open to composers who are Swiss or have been resident in Switzerland for at least three years, with no age limit. Artists active in contemporary composition, sound art, electronic music, or acousmatic music are eligible.
Works must be between 30 and 45 seconds long , be designed for electronic stereo reproduction, and maintain clarity even in large, crowded environments. Voices or spoken text are prohibited.
The winner will receive a prize of 5.000 francs and will see their work adopted as the LAC's official sound signature , presented during the tenth anniversary celebrations. The author will also have the opportunity to collaborate with the center on the development of short versions, seasonal adaptations, or digital formats , thus contributing to the construction of a coherent and dynamic institutional sound identity.
How to participate
Applications must be submitted by 12 April 2026 to the email address:
(I.e. thesoundoflac@laclugano.ch
(with subject: Composition Competition “The Sound of LAC” – [Name Surname]).
Required materials include an audio file (WAV or AIFF format, 48 kHz, 24-bit), a statement of intent, a brief artistic biography, and a document certifying compliance with the admission requirements. Proposals must be submitted via a secure link or Swisstransfer.
A sound as a signature
The selected work will not only be a functional signal, but will become a sound signature: a way of saying “you’re here, and it’s about to begin.”
Over the course of its ten years of activity, the LAC has built a recognizable architectural and cultural identity; now it aims to add a new piece, invisible but perceptible: his voice.
