On Thursday 17 October, the Limburg Youth Symphony Orchestra (LJSO) opened the International Vocallis Festival in Theater aan het Vrijthof Maastricht under the direction of conductor Sander Teepen. The concert offered a varied programme that captivated the audience from start to finish..

The evening began with Smetana's famous Moldau and continued with impressive performances by soloists, including cellist Quirine Viersen, who shone with works by Bruch and Dvořák. Well-known opera melodies by Mozart, Verdi and Puccini were alternated with musicals such as The Sound of Music and West Side Story. The concert ended spectacularly with Tchaikovsky's Overture 1812.

In addition to Quirine Viersen, other soloists also made a deep impression. Soprano Bibi Ortjens, mezzo-soprano Madieke Marjon Schoots and tenor Tim Stoter, together with the orchestra, provided moving and powerful performances. Presenter
Rob Mennen led the audience through this musical evening with flair.

A special addition to the program was the world premiere of two songs by Piet Swerts, based on poems by Magda Maesen, performed by mezzo-soprano Madieke Marjon Schoots.

"The applause at the end of this wonderful evening still resonates. We are proud of the collaboration with the soloists and of the performance of a new composition. It was a privilege to contribute to this special festival that offers a stage to young musicians." - Jan Merten, Chairman LJSO

The opening concert was an unforgettable evening full of music and inspiration, with which the festival was festively launched.