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MUSICONversations II: Prof. John Snijders introduces the music of Matthijs Vermeulen

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9 February 2026 - 9 February 2026

7:00PM - 9:00PM

Birley Room, Hatfield College

  • Admission free, booking advised as space is limited.

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MUSICONversations is a new series of music appreciation evenings in which members of Durham’s renowned Music Department introduce music they love and would like to share with a wider audience. They will give a short introduction before playing a recording of the music, followed by time for reflection and conversation. No special musical knowledge is necessary to enjoy a MUSICONversation - we invite you to come and explore something new in the company of an expert guide.

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John Snijders writes: "The Dutch composer Matthijs Vermeulen (1888-1967) is to this day one of the most neglected but original voices in 20th Century music, even in his home country. His astoundingly energetic music and innovative handling of melody, harmony and instrumentation makes him a true non-conformist.
"His Symphony nr. 2 (Prelude for a new Day) not only shows influences from the most contemporary pieces of his time but even points forward to sounds and textures we don’t hear until decades later. His fourth symphony explores similar musical worlds but in a much more upbeat way; written in 1941 it is full of hope that victory will come and end the tragedy Europe was facing.
"Having performed some of his chamber music over the years I have always been fascinated by the sheer musical power of his compositions and am very happy to share some of them with new audiences.
Music played: 
Matthijs Vermeulen - Symphonie Nr. 2 “Prélude à la nouvelle journée”
Matthijs Vermeulen - Symphonie Nr. 4 “Les Victoires”

Pricing

Admission free, booking advised as space is limited.