In the organizer's words:

FiDO FiVE 2026

FIDOPLAYSZAPPA have been forging their own path in the convoluted musical cosmos of Frank Zappa for over two decades. The Swiss collective sees itself less as law-abiding guardians of the grail of the iconic US composer (1940-1993) than as respectful grave robbers.

FiDO's accolade came with guest singer Robert Martin, who played in Zappa's band from 1981 to 1988. FIDO have toured with the American four times since 2022, honing their breakneck arrangements in the process. Even before the unfortunate departure of Robert Martin in the fall of 2025 for health reasons, FIDOPLAYSZAPPA set the course for a further reorientation with the Basel Research Prize, which they were the first band to receive:
Under the tour name "FIDO FiVE", the five instrumentalists now consistently present themselves as five character heads, five voices and five frontmen. Because this is the only way to approach Zappa's legacy.

The Swiss tribute orchestra knows how to captivate every audience with the fearless mixture of snotty, rocking live show paired with virtuoso Swiss precision craftsmanship with which the stage-experienced professionals live out their passion for the music of the Great American Composer. The musicians celebrate obscure stories of modified dogs, smelly feet, sad Eskimos and all sorts of other curiosities of life in many voices and with verve.

FiDO shamelessly exploit improvisational freedom, break stylistic boundaries with virtuosity and make full use of the musical diversity and compositional humor of Zappa's work. With numerous inspiring live shows throughout Europe and six recordings, the Swiss tribute orchestra has arguably earned a place in the Olympus of the worldwide Zappa community over the last two decades. Stylistically confident, virtuosic, humorous and with their very own approach, FiDO continue to intoxicate themselves and their audience with the great work of Frank Zappa even after 20 years.

Lineup:
Stef Strittmatter - Guitar & Vocals
Oliver Friedli - Piano, Keys, Vocals
Martin Medimorec - Vibraphone, Marimba, Percussion, Vocals
Pascal Grünenfelder - Bass & Vocals
Remy Sträuli - Drums & Vocals