Metamorphoses is not only the title of one of the most important poetry collections from Roman times, but also of one of Richard Strauss’s final works. Cellist and philosopher Izak Hudnik places metamorphoses at the center of his dialogue between music and philosophy. He says: ‘Music is a kind of aesthetic catalyst. It reflects our way of life and evokes shared emotions.’

In his music, György Kurtág creates small bubbles of emotion and then quickly transforms them into something else. The late Strauss reflects on the traumatic metamorphosis of humanity during World War II. Philosopher Timotej Prosen helps us interpret these themes and better understand ourselves and the world around us.

Olivier Messiaen wrote his Quartet for the End of Time during World War II in a prisoner-of-war camp. The work was also premiered there, immediately making a deep impression on those in attendance. This poignant work has since become one of the most iconic compositions of the 20th century.

Messiaen sought to express the end of time through music. The effect on both the performers and the audience is a sense of inevitability, which at the same time offers comfort. You don’t simply listen to this work—you experience it. This performance is made even more powerful by the participation of Daniel Montero Real, a dancer with the Dutch National Ballet.

‘A musician joins a cheerful gathering and plays what he has brought back from distant lands.’ This is how Paul Hindemith describes his concerto The Swan Turner for viola and small orchestra. It’s hard to imagine a more beautiful description of what musicians do, whether we’re talking about the Middle Ages or today.

As a prelude to the IJ-Salon’s anniversary season, we will hear Michael Gieler, principal violist of the Concertgebouw Orchestra, perform one of the most important works for viola alongside his colleagues. The musicians will then split into smaller groups to perform both well-known and lesser-known works by the great composers of the 20th century.

Today, the IJ-salon takes the audience on a journey through the night. The moon sets the rhythm on Earth. It guides travelers in the dark and is the ally of all lovers. But the moon is also part of our nightmares. Music for the moon spanning three centuries, featuring visuals by video artist EVman and the Dutch debut of the talented young Australian singer Lotte Betts-Dean.

Michael Gieler, artistic director of Music Stages: ‘It’s no coincidence that the moon is the ultimate source of inspiration for poets, artists, and composers. It seems as though we can project all our emotions onto her. Whether you’re in love, happy, sad, or anxious—the moon always has a face to match. It’s high time we dedicated an entire IJ-Salon to our pale companion.’

In 1933, the well-known German playwright Bertolt Brecht penned the satirical ballet The Seven Mortal Sins. Kurt Weill’s music is reminiscent of that of 1920s German cabaret. The story of two sisters, Anna I and Anna II, and their wanderings through seven American cities, is brought to life by a charismatic young narrator, Kikki Géron. This timeless masterpiece is framed by musical touches from the world of non-classical music.

Michael Gieler, artistic director of Music Stages: 'I find the story of the two sisters particularly fascinating. It’s rare that such a sad subject – the sisters are abused by their families – is conveyed so originally on a stage. The happy ending brings justified relief.’

Ensemble Lumaka meets in the imaginary apartment of composer Rosy Wertheim.

The musicians discuss aloud how to take the audience along during search for Rosy's tracks and the zeitgeist of the 1930's. Paris in the 1930’s... a true melting pot of famous composers, writers, philosophers and actors. Imagine going back in time and meeting everyone who was there during that period: Stravinsky, Milhaud, Honegger and maybe even Coco Chanel; to be there while they heatedly discuss politics, art and philosophy! Maybe Rosy is showing off her latest composition, whilst someone is playing the newest classic by Ravel...
During their new production, Ensemble Lumaka opens the doors of Rosy's salon to that vibrant and exciting time.

Yang Yang Cai, a rising star in the piano world, is central to this program. The young Dutch-Chinese pianist curated this program together with high-profile theatre director and dancer Sarada Sarita, who is very influential in current political and artistic movements.

Michael Gieler, artistic director of Music Stages: ‘Our starting point during this concert is a piece which is rarely, if ever, performed: The Djinns by César Franck, based on a poem by Victor Hugo. It is a mysterious and dark text, set to music with great subtlety by Franck. Extraordinary!’

We’re not going to let the best concert of 2020 slip through our fingers just like that. The concert on May 22, featuring a collaboration between Graziëlla Hunsel Rivero—“The First Lady of Jazz from Amsterdam-Zuidoost”—and the versatile pianist and composer Rembrandt Frerichs, will get a second chance on October 2. Fine jazz combined with classical music is a true musical experience.

Graziella Hunsel really needs no introduction. This charismatic singer has long since stolen the hearts of all jazz lovers—and certainly not just in the Bijlmer. All of her concerts are a celebration where musicians and the audience feel at home and welcome.
For this program, she and artistic director Michael Gieler put together a swinging program including some of the most beautiful jazz standards, ranging from George Gershwin to Ella Fitzgerald.

Omar Mollo* is a renowned tango singer. Together with bandoneon player Santiago Cimadevilla, he will transport us to the world of Argentine tango - the world of Astor Piazzolla. In Piazzolla's music, elements of Johann Sebastian Bach, jazz and the avant-garde merge to form a unique sound world filled with melancholy and passion. Violinist Sylvia Huang, laureate of the Elisabeth Competition, will be the soloist during Piazzola’s Four Seasons. soleert violiste Sylvia Huang, laureaat van het befaamde Elisabethconcours.

Michael Gieler, artistic director of Music Stages: 'I'm really looking forward to this afternoon. Omar is a global star, and Sylvia is one in the making. A rugged warrior meets an angelic violinist. Two born performers making music together: this will be fun!'

* Omar Mollo will only perform on January 30th in the Muziekgebouw.