During World War II, a treasure of musical compositions disappeared into oblivion. Composers were persecuted for their political convictions, Jewish heritage, or resistance activities. Their work seemed permanently lost, until the Leo Smit Foundation took on the fate of this forgotten music. On November 30, the fourth edition of the Festival Forbidden Music Regained takes place at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam, where these rediscovered musical gems come to life once again.
Musical archaeology
The search for lost compositions resembles archaeological detective work. Sheet music was rediscovered on attics, in dusty archives, garden sheds, and even garbage bins. Thanks to the relentless efforts of the Leo Smit Foundation, this music is now getting a second life. Since 2021, the Festival Forbidden Music Regained has been the beating heart of this musical rediscovery.
New publications and world premieres This year, no fewer than 25 new musical publications are being presented. These are created through a fruitful collaboration between the Leo Smit Foundation, the Nederlands Muziek Instituut, and publisher Donemus. This brings the total number of rediscovered works to 125. Students of the Conservatorium van Amsterdam perform compositions by, among others, Leo Smit, Henriëtte Bosmans, Dick Kattenburg, and Julius Hijman.
Innovative closing performance:
The festival concludes with a special concert conducted by Shelley Katz. With his innovative Sympho Nova technique, he can create a full orchestral sound with a small ensemble or even solo. Earlier this year, he applied this technique to recordings for the project 'Reawakening Suppressed Music'.
Practical information The festival takes place on Saturday, November 30 at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam and is free of charge. There are three concerts:
- 14:00-15:00: Bernard Haitinkzaal (200 seats)
- 15:30-16:30: Bernard Haitinkzaal (200 seats)
- 17:00-18:00: Theaterzaal, Sympho Nova concert (80 seats)
Reservations are required and can be made via secretariaat@leosmit.nl. For more information: www.leosmitfoundation.org.