Amsterdam: Vivaldi – Four Seasons at the Old Lutheran Church

For those seeking a refined musical experience in Amsterdam, the Vivaldi – Four Seasons concert at the Old Lutheran Church offers a memorable hour of classical music in a stunning setting. Priced for this experience is not explicitly listed, but the concert lasts 65 minutes and takes place directly in the historic Old Lutheran Church in Amsterdam’s city center. This venue is renowned for its beautiful architecture and excellent acoustics, making it an ideal space for a concert of these timeless compositions.

Featuring performances by the Amsterdam Ensemble alongside three talented soloists, this concert showcases works by Vivaldi, Bach, Tchaikovsky, and more. It’s a perfect choice for those interested in classical music or looking for a special way to celebrate New Year with festive music in an intimate but grand environment. While reviews note some disappointment over decor and lighting, the musical quality itself remains a highlight, especially with skilled performers involved.

Key Points

• Duration: The concert lasts 65 minutes, making it a concise but enriching musical treat.
• Location: Held at Amsterdam’s Old Lutheran Church, a venue celebrated for its architecture and sound quality.
• Performance: Features the Amsterdam Ensemble with three soloists: violin, mezzo-soprano, and organ.
• Repertoire: Includes Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, Bach’s Orchestral Suite No. 3, Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker excerpts, and other classical favorites.
• Accessibility: The concert is wheelchair accessible, with options for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Experience: Suitable for classical music lovers and those seeking a festive New Year celebration in a historic setting.

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The Old Lutheran Church: A Historic and Architectural Treasure

The concert takes place inside the Old Lutheran Church, a site known for its stunning architecture and rich history. This historic venue provides a warm and captivating atmosphere, with its remarkable acoustics enhancing every note played. Visitors appreciate the visual beauty of the church, which adds to the overall charm of the musical performance.

The church’s interior serves as a perfect backdrop for classical masterpieces, creating a majestic ambiance that complements the music. The combination of historic architecture and live classical performance makes the experience distinctive compared with other concert venues in Amsterdam.

What Composes the Concert Program?

This concert features a diverse selection of well-loved classical pieces. The program begins with Johann Pachelbel’s Canon and Gigue, a piece famous for its graceful repetition. Georg Friedrich Händel’s Largo from Xerxes follows, offering a slow, expressive moment.

Vivaldi’s Spring and Winter from The Four Seasons form the core of the performance, highlighting the vibrant energy and intricate violin work by Dasha Serck. The program continues with Bach’s Air from Orchestral Suite No. 3, and Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker excerpts arranged for organ, adding a festive flair.

Additional pieces include Franz Schubert’s Ave Maria, Händel’s Messiah, and John Francis Wade’s Adeste Fideles, creating a varied yet coherent musical journey. The program concludes with Mozart’s Salzburg Symphony Allegro and Widor’s Toccata from Symphony No. 5, ending on an energetic note.

Meet the Soloists and Their Talents

The concert is led by three outstanding soloists. The violinist, Dasha Serck, is a Dutch artist who graduated cum laude from the Conservatorium van Amsterdam. She has performed across Europe and won the Athenamuse International Violin Competition. Her virtuosity and expressiveness are often praised.

Nana Tchikhinashvili, a mezzo-soprano from Georgia, performs with a rich vocal tone, having appeared at the Tbilisi Opera and in various European venues. She is also active as a composer, writing music for film and choral works, adding depth to her performance.

Luca Morgante, an organist from Canada, trained at Oxford, Tanglewood, and the Conservatorium van Amsterdam. His international career includes collaborations with renowned artists, and his organ skills bring a powerful dimension to the Tchaikovsky excerpts and other selections.

The Musicians’ Performance Quality and Audience Experience

The musicians are recognized for their talent, with some reviews noting outstanding violin playing by Dasha Serck. The ensemble, which includes a cellist and contrabassiste, performs well and contributes to a high-quality musical display.

The performance tempo and pacing are generally well-received, with the 65-minute duration providing a compact but full experience. Some criticism exists regarding the decor and lighting of the venue, which, according to reviews, was not decorated for Christmas despite promotional images showing festive decor. The full lights above seats may not create a cozy Christmas atmosphere but do not detract from the musical enjoyment.

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Practical Details and Accessibility

Tickets for this concert can be reserved with the option to pay later, offering flexibility for travelers planning their schedule. The concert starts at various times, so checking availability is recommended.

The venue is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for visitors with mobility needs. The location in Amsterdam city center ensures easy access, whether arriving on foot or via public transport.

Guests are advised that unaccompanied minors are not allowed, aligning with the venue’s policies. The duration of 65 minutes makes it an ideal choice for an early evening or short cultural break.

Comparing This Concert to Similar Experiences

This performance stands out for its historic venue and exceptional musicianship. It is similar to other classical concerts in Amsterdam, such as Bach by Candlelight at Westerkerk or other New Year concerts. However, the Old Lutheran Church’s architecture and the selection of performers give this experience a distinctive charm.

Other similar events might feature different composers or themes, but this concert’s focus on Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and the festive New Year setting make it particularly appealing during the holiday season.

Final Thoughts: Is This Concert Worth Attending?

This 65-minute classical concert in Amsterdam’s Old Lutheran Church offers a beautiful setting, skilled performers, and a diverse program of famous compositions. It is well-suited for classical music fans and those celebrating New Year in the city.

While some reviews mention disappointing decor and lighting issues, the overall musical quality and historic ambiance compensate. The concert provides an intimate yet grand atmosphere, making it a noteworthy cultural event during a visit to Amsterdam.

Ideal for appreciators of live classical music looking for a short, high-quality performance in a stunning historic venue.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the concert?
The concert lasts 65 minutes, making it a concise but meaningful musical event.

Where is the concert held?
It takes place at Amsterdam’s Old Lutheran Church, a site celebrated for its architecture and acoustics.

Is the venue accessible?
Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible.

What pieces are played?
The program includes Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, Bach’s Orchestral Suite No. 3, Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker excerpts, and other classical favorites.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, tickets are available for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Who performs at this concert?
The concert features the Amsterdam Ensemble with soloists: Dasha Serck (violin), Nana Tchikhinashvili (mezzo-soprano), and Luca Morgante (organ).

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby