Over the years, hundreds of students climbed the steep stairs to Louis Andriessen’s legendary studio at Keizersgracht 740. His signature words, ‘Hier moet gewerkt worden’ inspired Monica Germino and the Louis Andriessen Foundation to bring his workspace back to life at the Royal Conservatoire in The Hague. Not a static, museum-like space, but a place for active work and learning. The Bechstein piano at which he composed, his worktable, the family’s historic cabinet, where generations of Andriessens stored their scores, along with his books, art, and iconic electric pencil sharpener, are all tangible reminders of his creative life.
Thanks to the many hands that helped archive and organize Andriessen’s extensive collection of books and materials, his workspace—relocated to where he taught for over 40 years—can now inspire new generations of composers.
The studio houses a complete collection of his printed scores, generously donated by the publishers Boosey & Hawkes and Donemus. Students can study a score in the studio and then cross the street to the Netherlands Music Institute, where Louis’ annotated books are stored and organized by composition. Books were essential to Louis’ creative process, as reflected in the extensive annotations, including sketches and notes.
Connected to the studio is the Louis Andriessen Chair for visiting composers in residence, who can work with students on their compositions and projects. The Louis Andriessen Studio also offers them the space to focus on their own creative work, surrounded by Louis’ legacy.
The recently launched Louis Andriessen Platform brings together the Foundation’s multitude of initiatives related to his life and work, serving as a central source for comprehensive information, as well as updates on upcoming performances of his music.
With thanks to Société Gavigniès
30 September 2024 – 19.30h
Conservatoriumzaal, Amare, Den Haag
Free admission
You are warmly invited to a concert in honor of the legacy of Louis Andriessen,
the unveiling of the Louis Andriessen Studio,
and the announcement of the Louis Andriessen Chair.
🥂 After the concert, everyone is invited for a drink in the foyer, followed by a guided tour of the Louis Andriessen Studio.
Composers in the crosshairs of our attention