Andriessens The matter

For the first time in almost ten years, Louis Andriessen's visionary masterpiece can be heard in the Netherlands again! De Materie (1984-1988) is a musical spectacle of unprecedented proportions; 63 musicians on stage, four movements based on texts from four centuries and a monumental opening of 144 chords, played by the entire ensemble. For fans of De Stijl and Piet Mondrian, De Materie offers a unique listening experience. The third part, 'De Stijl', is a direct ode to this art movement. Here, Andriessen is inspired by Mondrian's abstract, geometric principles and interweaves rhythmic patterns with a pulsating 'boogie-woogie' groove. The tight, repetitive structures of Andriessen's music reflect the radical simplicity and harmony of De Stijl. But De Materie is more than just a musical reflection on art. Each part highlights a different revolutionary idea. The first part refers to the Act of Abjuration (1581), the declaration by which the Netherlands broke away from Spanish rule—a powerful symbol of political and intellectual independence that still resonates powerfully in the present day. The second part, entitled 'Hadewijch', is based on the Seventh Vision of the 13th-century mystic Hadewijch. In this vision she describes an intense, spiritual and even erotic union with the divine. Andriessen translates this mystical experience into a tranquil and introspective musical language, which transports the listener to a world of spiritual contemplation. The final part honors Madame Curie, the pioneering scientist who revolutionized our understanding of matter and radiation. These layered themes make De Materie a work of art that is as visionary and innovative as the artists and thinkers it honors. Don't miss this unique opportunity to experience Andriessen's magnum opus live—a musical experience that brings together art, science and history in a compelling and unforgettable performance. **The Music** Het Muziek is the leading ensemble for new music in the Netherlands. They perform groundbreaking contemporary music in various forms, from intimate chamber music to major music theatre productions, and actively seek collaboration with composers, makers and audiences. **Bas Wiegers** Bas Wiegers is a Dutch conductor with a broad international career in both contemporary and classical repertoire. He is known for his energetic and refined style, and works with leading ensembles and orchestras in Europe. His background as a violinist strengthens his musical approach in collaboration and interpretation. **Elisabeth Hetherington** 'The Canadian-Dutch soprano Elisabeth Hetherington received the Dutch Music Prize in De Doelen in 2024 and stands out with her expressive interpretations of early, modern and contemporary repertoire. Her background in modern dance fuels her multidisciplinary approach, seamlessly combining song and movement in innovative productions. Elisabeth is praised for her virtuosity, expressiveness and visual performance. On 9 May 2026, she will sing again in the Doelen with the Orchestra of the 18th Century.' **HIIIT** HIIIT (formerly known as Slagwerk Den Haag) is an idiosyncratic group of musicians in varying compositions that collaborates with makers from various disciplines, such as composers and producers, choreographers and visual artists. Driven by rhythm and curiosity for sound in all its forms, HIIIT explores the boundaries of new music. The musicians of HIIIT focus on playing, developing and innovating contemporary percussion music in the broadest sense of the word. Their work covers existing compositions, new commissions in collaboration with composers, and artistic research into sound, structure and playing style. They use traditional percussion, self-built instruments and electronic means. HIIIT consciously chooses an interdisciplinary approach. By working together with makers from other art forms, there is room for new perspectives and surprising combinations. Whether it concerns large-scale international productions or small-scale programs on location, the goal is always to tell new stories with percussion and to touch a wide audience in a direct and accessible way with current forms of music. **Yela de Koning** Yela de Koning is a Dutch actress known for her powerful stage presence and versatility in theater and screen. She graduated from the Theatre Academy in Maastricht in 2017 and joined Het Nationale Theater shortly afterwards as part of the ensemble. With the company, she has appeared in numerous acclaimed productions, including The Nether (2018), The Century of My Mother (2022) and Coriolanus (2023), in which she played the title role – a performance that earned her a Louis d'Or nomination for best leading actress.