During World War II, Hendrik Andriessen was imprisoned for five months in Camp Sint Michielsgestel for refusing to cooperate with the German occupation forces.
Compositional Technique
Hendrik Andriessen's Symphonie concertante uses orchestral instruments in alternating groups, rather than featuring a few solo instruments as in 18th-century concertante symphonies.
Composition History
The Symphonie concertante was commissioned for the 150th anniversary of the Noord-Hollands Philharmonisch Orkest, the orchestra of Haarlem and the province of Noord-Holland.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Hendrik Andriessen believed a composition should be a portrait of itself, not its creator, and that composers should focus on "sheer beauty" rather than audience reception.
Composer Biography
Hendrik Andriessen was a versatile figure in Dutch music for decades, serving as a composer, performer, teacher, author, conservatory director, and university professor.
Recording & Production
David Porcelijn, the conductor on this album, is recording complete orchestral works by Dutch composers like Hendrik Andriessen for the cpo label.
Performer Biography
Het Nederlandse Symfonieorkest (The Netherlands Symphony Orchestra) distinguishes itself by using historical instruments for classical works, acting as a cultural ambassador for the Province of Overijssel.
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