When Jane Sum returned to The Hague after sixteen years abroad, she knew one thing for sure: she wanted to fully enjoy art and culture again. A free lunch concert by the Residentie Orkest made such an impression that she decided to become a Friend. 'The concert was so beautiful that I immediately introduced my sister. Now we are both Friends!

Friends of the Residentie Orkest contribute to projects and activities that would not have been possible without their support. Think of master classes in orchestral conducting, a free concert in the Transvaal district of The Hague, or the conducting project with 1,200 elementary school pupils in The Hague. 'It's great to experience firsthand how music brings people together. I grant that to everyone.'

'The Residentie Orkest stands for connection and inspiration'

Jane not only enjoys the music, but also emphasizes the connecting role of the Residentie Orkest. 'The orchestra organizes different events where I always meet new people. Over time you get to know each other better and better, so a community develops around the orchestra.' For Jane, it's a place where she feels at home. 'I feel welcome there and get inspired every time.'

'I like to dedicate myself to diversity in The Hague'

'The Hague is a multicultural city, but you don't always see that reflected at concerts. The orchestra wants to change that by making classical music more accessible, and I'm happy to contribute to that! Recently Jane took some friends to The Residents in Concert, a free performance by 350 elementary school students with the orchestra in Amare. Her old elementary school also participated. 'The audience was diverse and everyone enjoyed themselves. Different neighborhoods, ages and cultures came together. That's exactly what I mean by connection.'

Younger generations are often little or not at all familiar with classical music. To appeal to them, the Residentie Orkest launched the innovative format RO NOW: short but powerful concerts with an introduction beforehand that brings the piece to life. Afterwards, a DJ plays and there are drinks in the foyer. "An accessible way to get to know the orchestra. Thanks in part to the support of the Friends, these innovative concerts can take place.

'As a Friend, you are close to the orchestra'

Friends of the Residentie Orkest get access to all kinds of inspiring activities. "From a master class for conductors to attending rehearsals, you really get closer to the orchestra. The program is varied and accessible, with regular discounts on events. 'The nice thing is that you can often bring a guest, which makes it even more accessible. That way, anyone who loves music can come and see it once. And after that, I'm sure they all want to become Friends!'

'Elementary school students' concert was my highlight'

Jane finds it hard to pick a favorite moment: "I've participated in so many fun things, but The Residents in Concert was a highlight. It was so moving to see how the kids got to show off their hard work, and how proud they were. The process they went through to get to that moment made it extra special.'

'With a small contribution you make a lot of impact'

What many people don't realize is that even a small contribution can make a big difference. In the arts world, budgets are often tight, but thanks to the support of the Friends, important community and social activities can continue. The Residentie Orkest appreciates every gift, large or small, and does its best to lower financial barriers. 'I wish everyone the inspiration and involvement you get as a Friend. I always look forward to the events tremendously and I wish that feeling to everyone.'

'Donations keep orchestra future-proofed'  

The support of donors will remain vital in the future. 'Donations ensure that the orchestra can not only continue to make beautiful music, but also fulfill its social and societal role.' With investments in its four pillars - symphonic, educational, talent development and social - the Residentie Orkest makes an indispensable contribution to The Hague's cultural sector. 'The orchestra has existed for 120 years. Together, let's make sure we can enjoy it for a long time to come!'