Close‐up Concertgebouw Orchestra: From the Old World

About the Event

For Europeans, America's allure as 'the land of the free' was undeniable. Musicians from the Concertgebouw Orchestra are set to perform thrilling compositions by Dvořák, Korngold, Eisler, and others, all written in the United States.

Dvořák, Korngold, and Eisler
The US Declaration of Independence was signed 250 years ago, emphasizing freedom and equality, and inspiring new democracies. Our musicians celebrate this pivotal document by performing works from composers who temporarily left Europe for the New World, a place of infinite opportunities. The Czech composer Dvořák was invited to New York to teach composition, drawing inspiration from its people and landscapes, evident in his ‘American’ string quintet. Varèse, a Frenchman, found artistic freedom in the US in 1915, influencing American innovators. Korngold, Toch, and Eisler fled 1930s anti‐Semitism and Nazism, building vibrant careers in America. Their music brims with renewed energy, optimism, and a longing for a liberated Europe.

Close‐up
Concertgebouw Orchestra musicians perform bespoke programmes in the Recital Hall, part of the Close‐up chamber music series. Each concert is a one‐time event, showcasing the musicians' individual talents. Organized by Friends of the Concertgebouw and the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, these intimate concerts offer a unique experience of the orchestra's exceptional musicianship.