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WELCOME AND ENJOY ! FROM YOUR WEB HOSTS ~ JOHN AND SUZANNE

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►Click on Photo To See and Hear Nightingale Serenade

Mar 30, 2012

Andre Rieu "Under The Stars: Live In Maastricht V" (DVD)
Ovation Shop, Australia: Released 27th April - Pre-Order Now!
Fall in love again with André Rieu and his Johann Strauss Orchestra as they bring you a show of favourites under the star-studded summer skies. André returns to his hometown of Maastricht bringing with him two wonderful guest choirs – the Harlem Gospel Choir and the Soweto Gospel Choir – and a host of special guests. Watch Mirusia fly through the air singing Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious (from Mary Poppins), feel the thrill and passion of the Harlem Gospel Choir and the Soweto Gospel Choir. From Spirituals to Musicals, and Folk Songs to Waltzes, this is a glorious and thrilling celebration of music. 
►Tracklisting 1. Seventy-Six Trombones 2. Blaze Away 3. La Danza 4. Nessun Dorma 5. Amen 6. I Will Follow Him 7. Oh Happy Day 8. Pie Jesu (Lloyd Webber) 9. Lara’s Theme (from Dr. Zhivago) 10. Poliushko Polie 11. Kalinka 12. Vilja Song 13. And The Waltz Goes On 14. Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious 15. Don’t Cry For Me Argentina 16. Boleró 17. Radetzky March 18. Strauss & Co.19. Zorba’s Dance (Sirtaki) 20. Zjuulke Zeuhout 21. Maastricht Anthem 22. Maastricht, City Of Jolly People 23. Oh When The Saints 24. Adieu, Little Captain Of My Heart 
Featuring: Mirusia Louwerse, Kimmy Skota, Kalki Schrijvers, The Platin Tenors, Harlem Gospel Choir, Soweto Gospel Choir, Trio St. Petersburg and ANDRÉ RIEU and his JOHANN STRAUSS ORCHESTRA
Thanks to Mrs. Ed for the heads up on this!

►André Rieu Under The Stars Maastricht V on Ovation

Mar 27, 2012

André Rieu A Little Positive Update Today

A Little Positive Update Today
March 27, 2012- Roerdalen Newspaper, Limburg: It looks as if André Rieu is again healed enough so that he and his orchestra will start to perform again on April 20th, in the Danish city of Odensee. This performance is still reflected on Rieu's site, and will be followed a day or so later in Copenhagen and then afterards a couple of performances in various German cities. Again in May there is a full agenda and in June his Brazilian tour. Later in June there will again be a few concerts on the Vrijthof in Maastricht.
Link from Elke Blieferings Site and John's English Translation
 

'The Staar' Renews Itself in Order to Survive

'The Mastreechter Staar' Renews Itself in Order to Survive
TRANSITION of subtle changes and new trends in Maastricht's Royal Men's Choir by Vikkie Bartholomew 
No looking back during their new direction, but subtle changes and new adjustments are in order. Out of sheer necessity to survive, the Mastreechter Staar is in transition. In order to secure the continuance of the male choral choir, a novation is required. We had mixed feelings about that. When André Rieu in his 2008 performance on the Vrijthof required more panache of the static stage presence of the 150 singers of a rather stiff Mastreechter Staar, it caused some grumbling here and there. Comments like: "I am not going to swing on stage, while singing "When I'm Sixty-Four?" When the singers had jump up and down like kangaroos during the Kangaroo Song, that for many was arguably really over the top. "You do not need to become a caricature of yourself. 
But, fair is fair; they learned something. André Rieu released something in the singers. The Staar can do other things in addition to just being "listened to" as a famous choir with that bronze sound. That was apparent during the presentation for the bid for Maastricht to become the Cultural Capital of 2018, when the Staar sang a whisper composition and a swinging song with drama student Merhnoush Rahmani.
"The Staar can also do other things", explains Jean Jacobs. Since 2010 he has been the President of the Royal Mastreechter Staar Choir and his mission is to secure the choir's future. It may sound harsh, but if the choir continues on it's current trend, "in a few years we will be singing only at each other's funerals." The office of "Flycatcher" has investigated the vitality of the choir. The number of singing members remains relatively stable at 150, but the average age is rising alarmingly fast and is now up to 65. It is not a secret that younger members are necessary for it's survival. But how do you make an institution such as the Staar appealing to newcomers? By regularly conducting beautiful concert tours is one example. Jacobs wants to go to Malta, which in 2018 could also become the cultural capital. 
It may sound strange, but Jacobs has more discipline for the Staar in mind. Not that we really should have formal 'drills', but take a look at the Maastricht Explorer Band, they are so popular that they even have a waiting list for new members. "A feeling of striving towards a common goal, together with a super performance, that builds cohesiveness." There also has to be comradery, a good club live, and the Staar must really feel like a warm nest. That is only possible if there are accommodations that are well suited. Rehearsing in between the monkey bars and slides of the indoor playground of the "Awwe Stiene" remains peculiar.
But the rehearsing schedule is flexible. To rehearse twice a week is for many young people with jobs, family and social life, often too much. A rehearsal may be missed, providing that there is practice at home. The scores and MP3's are Internet accessible to the members. But a more open culture is expected. The Mastreechter Staar should be more open to co operations. Contact has been made with Mignon from Geleen, the Maastricht University Choir, and there are talks with the Men's Choir "Borgharen." Jacobs: "Organizational rivalries which do exists, need to disappear. It's all about only one thing: men's Choir singing.
"In the mean time, the Staar wants to maintain it's current ambition: "Choir singing that borders on a professional level". On a contractual note, the Staar, for example, has to perform every concert with at least 120 singers on stage. Each year the choir performs twenty to thirty concerts throughout the country. Jacobs: "We would like to book a lot more concerts, but we are unable." Renewal and rejuvenation of the Staar is a hefty ambition. Soon the choir will start with mini concerts, small performances to make the new singers more excited. New members will later definitely perform more in the region, because this too should improve the vitality of the choir. "Let's be honest. The Mastreechter Staar is world famous. The Mastreechter Staar recently gave a presentation in the Theater on the Vrijthof in connection with the bid for Cultural Capital of 2018.

Thanks to John for Translating this and Ineke for sending it in

Mar 22, 2012

Mirusia's Facebook: "A cute article from Limburg Plus!"
Mirusia Louwerse is undoubtedly one of the major stars of André Rieu's Johann Strauss Orchestra. The 26-year-old soprano was born in the Australian city of Brisbane, but is of Dutch descent and speaks their language fluently. With her golden voice she brings worldwide audiences together.

This summer, she will again be heard in Maastricht, when Andre Rieu's orchestra again performs a series of concerts on the Vrijthof. 
Did you know that Mirusia scored a No. 1 hit in Australia with the album Waltzing Matilda? She recorded that with the Johann Strauss Orchestra. Enjoy some vocal highlights of this extremely talented singer.
 Thanks to John for the Translation
 

Mar 21, 2012

André Rieu Returns to Ontario, California March 2013

FOR WEST COAST, CALIFORNIA AREA FANS
ANDRÉ RETURNS IN MARCH 2013 
After a 2 year absence André Rieu is returning to Southern California on Wednesday, March 13, 2013 at the Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario, California. Tickets will be offered to the general public on Friday, March 23, 2012. ►For more information and membership discount call KVCR (909) 384-4350 or go to KVCR at: www.kvcr.org

Is There More Going on With André Rieu?

Is there a lot more going on with André Rieu?
March Privé Magazine: According to Jo Cortenraedt these were just André’s fantasies and creativity, which put him where he is today. Yet there in lurks the danger which now has placed him into great difficulties. "He under estimated the physical side and that German TV show … it appears that it has done him in." Especially in the planning there seemed to have been a lot of emphasis. And for that matter, Rieu can thank his lucky star, if after Easter he indeed will make his comeback. And there again awaits him an impressive tour schedule which will chase him all over the world ... Click on link below to read the full article ...
 

THE "STAAR" TO PERFORM AGAIN WITH RIEU

THE "STAAR" TO PEFORM AGAIN WITH RIEU
March 21, de Limburger: The Mastreechter Staar is again invited to participate in the series of concerts on the Vrijthof with André Rieu.
In 2008, the Staar also performed on stage with Rieu. That according to baritone Louis Steen's was not only an "enormous" experience for the choir, but also for the public. It was really an unforgettable experience. Four years ago the Staar choir members entered the square on their way to the stage with the torches. They sang amongst others "the Legend of the twelve thieves" and also some modern works. 
Rieu, who is currently ill, has planned four concerts for the end of June on the Vrijthof. This will be the eighth consecutive year that he and his orchestra will perform on the square.
Thanks to John for this and Translating it

Mar 20, 2012

Nine Stradivari and Amati Violins in The Theater on The Vrijthof

Exceptional! Nine Stradivari and Amati Violins
In The Theater on The Vrijthof

The representative of the Stravidari Foundation from the Italian Cremona, Fausto Cacciatori, is fully enjoying the dress rehearsal of the Amati Ensemble. Simultaneously he keeps an eye on all the violins placed on the edge of the stage. Logically, these are the nine violins from the 16th and 17th century built by the supreme gods of violin makers. An Amati and even a Stradivari. The later, the student, became even a more famous student, and you never leave them behind. Not only because of the tremendous value of the instruments, but also out of respect for these wonders of the music culture. In the meantime, the Amati Ensemble is playing all the stars from the heavens. At least for the untrained ears of your Maastricht reporter. The members of the ensemble are all very selfcritical. Frequently interrupting their rehearsal and with short powerful means and a smile here and there, taking corrective measures. And then to again have beautiful sounds echo throughout a now empty Vrijthof theatre. Gil Sharon the leader of the Amati Ensemble ensures that everything remains under control. 

This evening, the Amati Ensemble will present a special concert in connection with the 25th anniversary of the TEFAF (The European Fine Arts Fair) on these exceptional instruments. Under which an Amati from 1615 and a Stradivari, belonging to André Rieu from 1667. Maastricht Aktueel fotographer Laurens Bouvrie watched a committed group rehearse. Tonight a full Theater on the Vrijthof will be enjoying the Amati Ensemble, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. So, a double reason to celebrate.
Thanks to John and Ineke for this

André Rieu, Under The Stars, Live in Maastricht 5!

Just posted on André's Facebook Page
ANDRÉ RIEU: ►Let's start off the new season with a sneak preview of the forthcoming DVD/Blu-Ray: André Rieu: "UNDER THE STARS, LIVE IN MAASTRICH 5!" Have a beautiful spring (or autumn)!
To be released April 23, 2012 on DVD and Blu-Ray

Mar 19, 2012

André Rieu is On The Mend

Rieu Fans Are Overjoyed That Their Idol is On The Mend
Maastricht March 19: Fans of the Maastricht star violinist André Rieu are delighted that their idol is back on the mend. That can be concluded from the many comments in the world star's official web site's guest book. In recent months many fans from around the world have left comments, they were not only sympathetic with the musician, but they also prayed for him frequently, they write.
According to his management, André Rieu is already hard at work in his studio and office. Beginning the end of next month he will be back on stage. He will then begin to catch up with several concerts which because of his illness and severe fatigue, were postponed.
In recent months, and due to his frail health, Rieu had to postponed a large number of concerts in Germany, France and Denmark. From 22 to 26 June, Rieu and his orchestra will again perform on the Vrijthof in Maastricht.
Thanks to Ineke for sending this and John Translating it

Mar 18, 2012

Gary Bennett to Give Solo Concert in Tasmania

"I am pleased to announce that together with my pianist Michael Allan, I will be performing a Solo Concert in the Town Hall, Hobart, Tasmania at 2:30pm, Sunday July 22nd.
During the concert I will sing a mixed program including - Irish songs, English and German Operetta arias, Neopolitan songs and Opera arias.  
For all those who are interested in attending this concert, keep watching this site because I will soon be including details as to where tickets can be booked.  
Please spread the word especially among my Australian friends and fans as I would love to see you all there. Of course anyone wanting to come from further away would be more than welcome." ~ Gary Bennett

Mar 15, 2012

Overworked André Rieu

Overworked André Rieu

Maastricht, March 15, 2012:
Overworked André Rieu is at least for yet another month out of circulation. His battery is empty.

The violin virtuoso, who has already been home ill for a month and a half, is overworked, according to his son Pierre. "All the hectic events around concerts and other obligations became a bit too much. What first seemed to be a lingering flu, now in reality appeared to be a burnout. 
The world famous waltz specialist is very optimistic about his recovery, ensures André Rieu's son Pierre. But it will be at least another month before he again will be on stage anywhere with bow and violin. The management of the popular Limburg musician has kept very quiet during the recent weeks about André Rieu's health status. But yesterday his son Pierre added for the first time a name to his father's mysterious illness. The reality is that André is overworked. 
In other words, he is over exerted or as it is called nowadays, he suffers from burn-out. He has taken on too much. And apparently he is now physically and mentally being "punished" for a hectic lifestyle, which apparently has not affected him for many years. 
The first symptoms of André Rieu's illness appeared in January 2012, when he was downed with the flu and a virus infection which had a side effect that caused the violinist to also suffer from dizziness. "It was the same identical dizziness which caused my father to out of circulation for two month towards the end of 2010. Apparently, that has remained a weak spot in his body. Remarkably, this time, the symptoms did not disappear after some rest and medication. So the diagnosis was declared as being "overworked", says Pierre frankly. 
In the case of my father this overexertion shows up as fatigue, dizziness and sometimes a somewhat somber mood. No, André Rieu is not mentally unstable and does not suffer from crying spells. Fortunately it has not gone that far with my father. His battery is rather low. I feared that last year already when I saw him working day and night on the new Christmas special. 
This project has messed him up. Immediately after having finished the recordings, when it became clear that André Rieu was overworked, his management canceled all appointments from his busy schedule for the next few weeks. Pierre: The inserted rest did my father a lot of good. But the adverse effect on the recovery process is the fact that every day without work will cost André Rieu a fortune, due to missed concert earnings. He employs 120 persons, Orchestra members and other personnel need their salaries. The entire company is built around one person: André Rieu. If he cannot work due to illness, the financial flow dries up and my father eats into his reserves. The entire situation cannot last too long since he does not have insurance for being out of work, thereby keeping his reserves intact. Because of that, my father is currently and continuously under great stress, while right now he desperately needs his rest.  
If all goes well, André Rieu will perform his first concert again on April 20th in Denmark. Son Pierre emphasizes that up until that time, he has to take it easy. "My father does not spend the entire day sleeping and grumbling around in his bed. He's just quietly relaxing in and around his house. He practices in his studio, simply because making music gives him a lot of energy. He takes walks, does fun things with his wife, sons, their entourage, and the grandchildren. He enjoys that very much. Dad is also dieting, since he has gained some weight recently. With fitness training he is trying improve his condition and stay fit.  
After his recovery a series of already planned and a few catch-up concerts await André Rieu. "Busy times are again ahead. But we are going to set up his agenda differently from now on. Especially the number of ancillary activities such as interviews and promotional events will be greatly minimized. André Rieu will do everything to protect himself against a possible relapse. He feels he is making progress, one step at a time. That makes him optimistic. He firmly believes everything is going in the right direction." 
Thanks to Ineke and John for Translating this for us

Mar 14, 2012

André Rieu is Slowly Recovering

André Rieu is Slowly Recovering
Things are improving with Andre Rieu's illness. "Everything is going well, he is quietly going back to his studio and office," says a spokesperson.
As of April 20th André Rieu will be on stage again, and he will then start by catching up on the missed performances.The rumors that the 62-year-old musician is suffering from an immune disease is absolute nonsense, according to his spokesperson. "I find it strange that such rumors evolve when in fact no one sees André.Every now and then he also attends a rehearsal. He still must maintain his rest."
Due to fatigue and flu the violinist had to cancel concerts in Germany, Denmark and France. He also had problems with his vestibular system, in which two years ago he had an infection.

On 20 April André starts again, amongst others, with catch up performances in Germany and Denmark. And again this year between 22 and 26 June, the violinist will again perform on the Vrijthof in Maastricht.

Thanks to Ineke for sending this and John Translating it

Mar 7, 2012

2012 DayTrip To The Red Rose Cafe From Maastricht!

2012 DayTrip To The Red Rose Cafe From Maastricht!
(The Complete Trip Layout From Ruud)
On a rainy afternoon in 1975 the Dutch producer and song writer Pierre Kartner {aka Vader (Father) Abraham) was sitting at a table near the window in a café in Hoorn, waiting for a photographer. This photographer actually never did show up.  
Mr. Kartner observed the daily activitieson the harbor just in front of the café and noticed the friendly and relaxed atmosphere inside the café. He picked-up a few beer-coasters and made notes from what he had observed. He took the coasters back home. But the visit to this café always remained lingering in his head. One night when he could not sleep, he picked-up the coasters again and within half an hour he had composed the song "Het
Kleine Café aan de Haven" literally translated: "The Little Café at the Harbor". This song quickly became very popular and attracted the attention of many international artists. The English version of this song eventually became to be known as "The Red Rose Café". In 2002 André Rieu and the JSO also recorded this song. André wanted to present the CD with this song on it to Mr. Kartner and it was Mr. Kartner who insisted this should take place in the original café, called:" 't Schippershuis" (Sailor’s house) in Hoorn. Imagine, inside a small café, the entire JSO -especially the ladies- in full dress!  
Some people suggested taking a day trip to the café in Hoorn during André Rieu's Maastricht 2012 Vrijthof concerts. This document will describe all details of this excursion. Bring your camera and wear sturdy shoes!
Thank you Ruud for putting so much time into this!

Well Wishes To André Rieu ...

Mar 5, 2012

André Rieu The Thirteen Million Dollar Man

André Rieu The Thirteen Million Dollar Man, Despite his Illness
March 5, 2012 "Maastricht Closeby (Dichtbij)" paper: The Maastricht great master of the waltz, André Rieu, is being written about as being ill, and as a matter of expression in many German speaking countries, it appears he still has enough dough (money) to go around. Business magazine, Quote, the magazine which also brought the attention to our own Six Million Dollar Man William Vermeend, estimates that the piggy bank of the Maastricht stand-alone violinist contains about 13 million.

In the recent past, almost twice things went wrong: first in 2008, when his huge concerts in Australia cost him eleven million more than they yielded (Rabobankwas pretty upset, said Quote) and again in 2010, when the world famous artist had to cancel several performances due to a viral infection. Just as now, due to burn-out, Rieu had to cancel a total of thirty performances in Germany,Denmark, Austria and France. His 120 employees are continued to be paid, which places an enormous strain on the piggy bank of the company.
According to "Quote" the artist is quite capable of coping with this setback. In 2011 he obtained a turnover of no less than 63.5 million dollars, enough for a personal profit of 13 million. 
Naturally "Maastricht Closeby" wishes its most popular citizen the very best in his recovery. Because we all want to see him perform of course on the Vrijthof on 22, 23, 24 and 26 June.


Thanks to John for Translating this for us ...

CLICK ON LINK BELOW TO CONTINUE READING ALL ARTICLES ON THE HARMONY PARLOR!!

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Pierre and André September 30, 2016 Maastricht

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Photo Taken at Mexico City Concert ~ September 2013

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"Hello to all my fans on The Harmony Parlor!"


Soundcheck in Maastricht 2013 (RTL Photo)



Maastricht 2012 ~ "André on The Theater Steps" by Bee

Maastricht 2012 ~ "André and Pierre on The Theater Steps" by Bee

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