Pianoduo Festival Amsterdam

Classical masters meet minimal music

With classical music, new compositions, and collaborations between different musical styles, the festival demonstrates the full potential of a piano duo. The theme of this edition is 'Old Roots / New Roots' , focusing on the connection between tradition and innovation.

Composers such as Bach and Schubert form an important foundation of the festival. At the same time, there is ample room for new music and young creators. For instance, the winning work of the Pianoduo Festival Composition Competition is being performed for the first time.

The combination of old and new music can be heard throughout the program. During the opening concert, for example, works by Bach are combined with minimal music by composers such as Philip Glass and Steve Reich. Schubert features prominently in both small, intimate concerts and large concerts with international musicians.

“With 'Old Roots / New Roots', we show how important the tradition of piano music is. At the same time, we demonstrate how surprising and modern this music can sound today,” say artistic directors Lestari Scholtes and Gwylim Janssens.

From family concert to jazz

There is music for a broad audience. For example, there is a family concert featuring The Nutcracker , a jazz evening centered on Bach, and small concerts. There are also program items that are free to attend.

In addition, attention is paid to new ways of performing music and to young talent. This is done through the PFA Academy , among other channels. Amateur duos also get the chance to perform during the Open DuoPodium .

With this program, the Pianoduo Festival Amsterdam demonstrates that the piano duo continues to evolve. The festival respects classical music but is also open to new ideas, musical styles, and audiences.