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.

The Cuban capital, Havana, lives and breathes music. Under the Caribbean sun, a spirited people use their music to brave the hardships that life throws their way. The cheerfulness and humor of Cuban music make for a festive end to 2021. A mini-festival featuring music ranging from the early Baroque composers who emigrated from Spain, through the distinctive sounds of the zarzuela (Spanish-language operetta), to the music of today. The event will conclude with a spectacular dance party in the Entrance Hall.

Michael Gieler, artistic director of Music Stages: 'Mirelys Morgan joined the Concertgebouw Orchestra a few years ago. She had a sweet, charming sound. Her body sometimes seemed fluid, so relaxed. My fascination with Cuba and the Caribbean began upon her arrival. Soon after, I met a very talented young Dutch conductor, Leonard Evers. He too had a great interest in Cuba and is full of wonderful ideas. We're teaming up to throw an unforgettable end-of-year party.’

 

Program

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Violinist Mirelys Morgan and pianist Madarys Morgan are top Cuban musicians—and sisters. As part of the Noches de la Habana mini-festival, Mirelys and Madarys Morgan will present a lecture-recital in the Kleine Zaal, featuring Cuban repertoire for violin and piano.

In the VPRO's four-part travel series *Cuba After Castro* The film follows Cuban-Dutch filmmaker Yuribert Capetillo Hardy during his emotionally charged return to his homeland. In his talk, the talented filmmaker discusses the making of the series and shows key moments from it. He also talks about recent developments since he made his trip to Cuba.

In the VPRO's four-part travel series *Cuba After Castro* The film follows Cuban-Dutch filmmaker Yuribert Capetillo Hardy during his emotionally charged return to his homeland. In his talk, the talented filmmaker discusses the making of the series and shows key moments from it. He also talks about recent developments since he made his trip to Cuba.

The Cuban capital, Havana, lives and breathes music. Under the Caribbean sun, a lively people use their music to brave the hardships that life throws their way. The cheerfulness and humor of Cuban music make for a festive concert with a spectacular afterparty.

 

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.’

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!’