Classical and innovative

Over the years the Sweelinck Orchestra has performed striking programmes. Classical highlights included the first symphony by Gustav Mahler, the sixth symphony by Anton Bruckner and the suite from Der Rosenkavalier by Richard Strauss. But the orchestra also did not shy away from innovative concepts and contemporary compositions. For instance, during the 2013 lustrum the Sweelinck Orchestra has combined classical music with Brazilian bossa-nova culture with the project Tributo to Orfeo Negro. 

Der Ring ohne Worte

In 2018 the UvA orchestra J.Pzn. Sweelinck celebrated its 140th anniversary and played 'Der Ring ohne Worte', the arrangement of 'Der Ring des Nibelungen' by Wagner. The orchestra performed in the Netherlands and went on tour to Georgia. The Sweelinck Orchestra is the first Dutch amateur orchestra ever to play this piece. The performance requires a line-up of 105 musicians and special instruments, including Wagner tubas, a bass trumpet, a contraba trombone and even an anvil.

Kristina Klomp: ''Der Ring ohne Worte' is rarely performed because it is a complex piece that requires all kinds of exceptional instruments. But our conductor Konradin Herzog does not shy away from letting us play this piece. He brings out the best in us, which means an enriching experience for all of us'.