The Enschede firework disaster: a city reflects
A series of explosions at the SE Fireworks storage facility on May 13th, 2000, ripped through the heart of Enschede. The repercussions are still felt today. 23 people died, 1250…
Unpicking the writing process with debut novelist, Lucy Steeds
British author, Lucy Steeds finds inspiration and creative freedom in Amsterdam’s rich cultural heritage. A suppressed female artist, a controlling uncle who is also a world famous French artist, and…
Davina Clarke and friends define the Art of Obligato
The highlight of many a violinist’s calendar is the prospect of playing J.S. Bach’s wonderful violin obligatos in his St. Matthew Passion. Who will play the first orchestra’s Erbarme dich,…
A strikingly colourful Ariadne auf Naxos from Nederlandse Reisopera
Opera thrives on partnership. Nederlandse Reisopera’s new production of Richard Strauss’ Ariadne auf Naxos, is the perfect vehicle for such a vision, not only bringing together all the art forms,…
Rotterdam Philharmonic appoints Top man for the job
Dutch violinist, Tjeerd Top is the new leader of the Rotterdam Philharmonic, replacing Igor Gruppman who bid the orchestra a fond farewell in January 2023. Taking a six-month sabbatical from…
Joshua Bell inspires a new generation of violinists at the Concertgebouw
The Concertgebouw was buzzing. In one of the most diverse audiences I have seen for a while, young and old alike jostled for position in the cosy foyer of the…
Dutch bells take centre stage at the Concertgebouw
Rafael Payare and the Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal travelled to the Concertgebouw Amsterdam with some very special luggage: a pair of orchestral bells made by the Eijsbouts foundry in the…
Dutch broadcaster NPO showcases teaching at its best on prime-time TV
In the classical music world, the development of young music talent is important, yet most of the time, it occurs behind closed doors. A constant stream of masterclasses given generously…
William Knight’s new commission for the Nederlands Kamerkoor tells a very English tale
Nederlands Kamerkoor The Canterbury Songs travelled to Enschede’s Grote Kerk with British choral conductor Peter Phillips to tell a very British tale. For a choir known for their innovative programming, this latest offering…
Mäkelä’s magical Mahler 1 with the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra
Casually dressed in an open neck shirt and brown suede shoes, Klaus Mäkelä, chief conductor designate of the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, joined the stage for the first of three events,…