The programme represents a new chapter, in which we look back at 60 years of the VU Orchestra, but also at the past period. Thin Air by Calliope Tsoupaki reflects on the corona crisis and is an ode to compassion and solidarity. It is followed without interruption by Tod und Verklärung by Richard Strauss. This symphonic poem focuses on the transition from life to death. After the interval, the orchestra swings in Leonard Bernstein’s Symphonic Dances from Westside Story. This modern interpretation of Shakespeare’s famous love drama is followed up with classical music from Sergei Prokofiev’s suites from Romeo and Juliet. The concert thus ends with an ode to love.

The VU Orchestra is the student orchestra of the Free University of Amsterdam. It is one of the largest and most pioneering amateur orchestras in the Netherlands and is known for its daring and innovative programmes. Since September, the orchestra has been playing under Arjan Tien. This is the first concert of the VU Orchestra with Arjan Tien as conductor.