In April 2025, the MIRY Concertzaal presents once again a richly varied programme in which young talent, masterful performances and surprising repertoire choices take centre stage. With three concerts — vocal, pianistic and chamber music — this Ghent concert hall confirms its reputation as a breeding ground for musical mastery and artistic discoveries.
An evening full of arias and ensembles: MIRY Vocaal (5 April)
On Saturday 5 April at 20:00, MIRY opens the concert season with singers and pianists from the International Opera Academy. On the programme: a selection of well-known and lesser-known arias, refined ensembles and perhaps even a touch of light repertoire. This performance offers a unique opportunity to see the future stars of the opera world in action, in an intimate setting where their voice and expression can shine to the fullest.
[caption id="attachment_41670" align="alignleft" width="300"]
foto: Tom De Beukelaer[/caption]
French Baroque meets the twentieth century: Samuel Van de Velde (8 April)
How did French Baroque influence twentieth-century composers? Pianist Samuel Van de Velde answers that question on Tuesday 8 April with a compelling recital that brings together works by Rameau, Debussy and Bartók. The legacy of masters such as Couperin and Rameau resounds in the impressionistic colours of Debussy and even in the rhythmic complexity of Bartók. Van de Velde invites the audience to discover and experience these musical threads for themselves.
[caption id="attachment_41671" align="alignleft" width="200"]
foto: Justus Grimm[/caption]
Unjustly forgotten composers in the spotlight: MIRY Ensemble (28 April)
The month concludes with a high-quality chamber music evening. On Monday 28 April, Aylen Pritchin (violin), Razvan Popovici (viola), Justus Grimm (cello) and Diana Ketler (piano) present a compelling programme featuring music by Enescu, Mozart and Korngold.
The Romanian composer George Enescu, admired by Brahms and influenced by Wagner, deserves more attention than he receives today. His work bears witness to refined lyricism and a unique sound language. Erich Korngold too, often remembered as a pioneer of film music, was a child prodigy whom Mahler called the "new Mozart". Together with a classic by Mozart himself, their compositions form a rich and surprising whole.
If available, a video fragment of one of the musicians or ensembles involved can be added here.
Practical information
All concerts take place in the MIRY Concertzaal, connected to the Royal Conservatoire Ghent (School of Arts, HOGENT & Howest). Tickets and more information are available via www.miryconcertzaal.be or via their Facebook page.
Whether you love the drama of opera, the introspection of piano music or the dialogue of chamber music: the MIRY Concertzaal offers something for everyone in April. Let yourself be surprised by young talent, compelling programmes and a warm concert experience in the heart of Ghent.