The famous Dutch pianist, composer and psychiatrist Hans Henkemans (1913-1995) spent his entire life searching for ‘the essence’ of music. In the 1950s he made a name for himself at home and abroad with his brilliant Mozart and Debussy interpretations. He is also one of the most performed Dutch composers during that period.

However, in the 1960s, his outspoken ideas about music clashed radically with the ideas of the experimental music movement. According to Henkemans, it no longer makes music, but ‘sonic’. In the polemic that follows, Henkemans stands up for the Concertgebouw Orchestra, which is under fire. Yet Henkemans had to leave the Concertgebouw Orchestra in 1974. Henkemans is increasingly withdrawing from the music world. At the end of his life he is almost a forgotten name. It is partly thanks to Ed Spanjaard that there is renewed interest in Henkemans’ work.

Program:

• Explanation by Ed Spanjaard

Works by Hans Henkemans (1913-1995)

– Sonatine

– Andante con moto

– Moment Souriants

– Four Pieces for Four Hands

– Adagio & Variations

– Sonata