Willem-Alexander and Máxima's 25th Wedding Anniversary

In Amsterdam
February 2 | 8:15 p.m.
Buy tickets
Date
Tuesday , February Tuesday
Location
Concertgebouw, Amsterdam
Tickets
From €29.
Musicians
Conductor: Ed Spanjaard
Bandoneon: Carel Kraayenhof

Back at the Concertgebouw. The Netherlands Chamber Choir once again Netherlands Chamber Choir the music that touched the hearts of millions during the royal ceremony, including Schubert’s“Ave Maria,” the moving “Hallelujah” from Handel’s*Messiah*, and, of course, Piazzolla’s“Adiós nonino.” Bandoneonist Carel Kraayenhof, who made an indelible impression at the time, brings these Argentine sounds to life alongside Ramírez’s*Misa criolla*.

The Netherlands Chamber Choir at the pinnacle of the international choral world for ninety years. With their crystal-clear voices and infectious expression, the singers bring classical and modern choral music to life. Twenty-five years ago, the choir performed at the wedding of Willem-Alexander and Máxima in the Nieuwe Kerk, singing pieces including Schubert’s“Ave Maria”and the “Hallelujah” chorus from Handel’s“Messiah.” Now, a quarter-century later, this performance can be experienced once again at the Concertgebouw. In Ramirez’s*Misa criolla*, the singers, led by Ed Spanjaard, blend seamlessly with bandoneonist Carel Kraayenhof, who played an unforgettable role during the royal wedding. He plays as a poet recites his verses, touching the very heart of tango and Argentine music.

In 1963, Pope John XXIII threw the windows wide open. His “aggiornamento”—the Church’s renewal—had immense consequences. Latin disappeared as the official language of the Church, paving the way for worship in the vernacular. Antonio Ramírez stepped into the void and composed his*Misa criolla*, a complete Mass in Spanish. Each movement is based on a distinct dance from different regions of Argentina. Carnival alongside the vast pampas—this work was bound to be a tremendous success. Ramírez went on to become Argentina’s second-greatest composer—after Astor Piazzolla, of course. Piazzolla’s*Adiós nonino*lets you relive Máxima’s tearful moment.