Netherlands Wind Ensemble

With Richard Strauss and Arnold Schönberg, the NBE explores the theme of love: romantic longing and the confrontation with harsh reality. The light, graceful ‘Serenade’ and the more drawn-out ‘Suite’ by a young Strauss stand in contrast to Schönberg’s poignant ‘Verklärte Nacht’, a musical interpretation of a nocturnal confession filled with guilt, forgiveness and inner transformation.

For the first time, the NBE is performing a full programme featuring wind instruments alone. Strauss in his original instrumentation and Schönberg’s works arranged for wind instruments by Geert van Keulen represent chamber music of the highest calibre. An exciting quest for new colours and for what lies hidden behind the original orchestrations.

The Flemish writer Maud Vanhauwaert transposes the story of *Verklärte Nacht* to the present day. Through playful, astute observations and unexpected twists, she brings love and vulnerability to life.