Mani Matter (1936–1972)

31.03.2012 - 16.09.2012

Mani Matter with his wife Joy Matter in the living room at Weidenaustrasse in Wabern. 1969. Photo: Walter Studer

Songwriter Mani Matter (1936–1972) is a classic in Switzerland and is worshipped across all generations. The Bernese writer left behind a wealth of songs which remain top sellers to this day. Rock and pop versions of his songs are produced, university seminars are held on him and music lessons in schools without his songs would be unthinkable.
Mani Matter is not just a much loved songwriter however, but also a top-ranking poet. His creative flair and witty ideas, his powers of observation and depth of thought and in his mastery of language and form, he can be likened to authors such as Christian Morgenstern, Kurt Tucholsky or Erich Kästner.
Mani Matter's songs are somewhat effortless and slick on first hearing them and appear harmless. If you pay them closer attention however, you will discover in Mani Matter's songs, diaries and letters («Rumpelbuch», «Sudelhefte») a critical citizen, an exciting intellectual and an educated thinker.
The temporary exhibition at the Forum of Swiss History Schwyz showcases these various facets of Mani Matter's character. Five themed islands, arranged by his most famous songs («Der Eskimo», «Bim Coiffeur», «Yr Isebahn», «Dr Parkingmeter», «Arabisch») display selected texts, photographs and items from his legacy. Numerous audio and media stations enable visitors to immerse themselves in the art of song and poetry and the mode of thinking of this wonderful songwriter.