Our Earliest André Rieu Fans - Part ll

Ruud and Ineke

From Holland

Since her earliest days she has been familiar with the German and Austrian operatic music because her mother was often singing operatic arias while doing the dishes. And she and Ruud have known André Rieu and the Johann Strauss Orchestra since the beginning (1990).

From Ineke: Ruud and I attended a concert in the 90's in a small theater in the Netherlands. At that time André performed mainly in Holland, Belgium, France and Germany. After his big breakthrough in the Netherlands in 1995 (soccer match Ajax (Holland) – Bayern- Munich (Germany)) the floodgates opened. I remember that we attended a concert in which Suzan Erens was the soloist for the first time - but I cannot remember which year that was.

André performed abroad very often (he was even more famous in Germany and Belgium than in the Netherlands) and suddenly we were aware that he had returned to the Netherlands in 2004 with a big show in the Roda Stadium in Kerkrade (DVD The Flying Dutchman). That signaled the moment for us to buy tickets again. There we met our first fan friends in person: Gemma and Nand from Belgium and a couple of Dutch fans. Because Facebook did not yet exist, the fans found each other through Sonja's guest book and website. We were slow starters. We had not been alert enough to buy tickets in time, so we were on the field far from the stage, but we could follow the concert on the big screens and the show was breathtaking. It was freezing cold but I'll never forget that concert!

Approaching the stadium I remember that we saw horse trailers outside on the parking lot and we wondered: ‘What is going to happen here?’ Before the concert started, a soccer player walked onto the stage and asked the audience: "What are you doing here? I'd like to do my training exercises." Well, that was not possible of course and then he said: "Well since I am here now, I'll teach you the "wave" as we do in soccer stadiums." It was very entertaining. We did not know yet that we had to use the wave techniques in the concert!! (Snow Waltz). André played for 4 hours, including his American tour repertoire with a country medley. Little Akim was there, white doves, the gurgling, the horses, Irish John Sheahan, German Otto Waalkes, Marcel Falize and his three young sons ... We had so much fun. We saw people happily waltzing in the smelly puddles and droppings which the horses had left behind! So please don't complain if you get wet during a concert, or covered with fake snow, confetti or whatever, because it could be worse!! We’d never laughed so much and had never experienced such a concert before! It blew us away. So special, we had the time of our lives. We were hooked and fans forever.

Gerd Leers, mayor of Maastricht was in the audience and he said to André: "You cannot perform in Kerkrade (a rival Limburg city) and not in Maastricht, because you are a Maastricht resident and Maastricht also has a soccer stadium...." Yes..... but that is not what André had in mind.... And if André has something in mind......pfooooh.... It had to be the Vrijthof in the center of the city!! To make a long story short: The next year the concert was in Maastricht on the Vrijthof square ...

Later on we noticed that we had missed Cortona in 2003, and that is what we regret most. Of course, we attended the first Maastricht concerts the following year and all those that followed during the next 9 years. It has become our primary hobby and holiday destination: By 2014 it has grown to include a fan website, three weeks in Maastricht, 8 concerts, thousands of international fan friends, fan dinners, fan picnics, fan events. It is amazing!

We have attended countless concerts with fan friends all over the world: in several European countries, Canada, USA and Australia. Also, of course, the "Specials" in Toronto, Heidelberg, Mainau and Vienna, which were unforgettable.

And ... most importantly: since we were not "real" classical music lovers, we learned a lot about classical music! André taught us the meaning of several arias from operettas, names of composers, and so on.

By 2007 Sonja had become too busy to continue with her translations website. We discussed it in Maastricht where we all met each other. There the idea was born that Sonja would keep the Translations website dormant to save all the information (www.andrerieutranslations.com), while Sue Berry and John de Jong would continue Sonja's guest book and start the blog ‘Harmony Parlor’ (which developed into an entire website by itself). When Facebook became popular, Sue created the Harmony Parlor group on Facebook in 2010, which currently boasts over 4000 members and the lively discussions moved from the website guest books to Facebook.

Ruud and I started the Movies fan website in 2007 with the idea of posting mainly video clips, TV programs and interviews. In the meantime we have posted over 500 videos on our movies website. To this very day, the movies website (from Holland) and the Harmony Parlor (from California, USA) still work happily together. Sonja and John who were born in the Netherlands and Entia from South Africa assist us with English translations, so we are a great team. Read the "History of the fan websites" on http://www.andrerieumovies.com/Historyfanwebsites.html

Ruud and I have never been to Meet and Greets, nor did we purchase expensive travel packages and we have never met André in person. We are proud of the few high-fives which we have received in the aisles and my first photo with André was a coincidence in the CinemaLive broadcast of Maastricht 2012 in Heerlen. We went to Heerlen with a few Dutch fan friends, for a weekend in Christmas atmosphere and we were about to leave the cinema after the movie had finished. Then... André came downstairs – there were not many people around – and we asked for a picture with him. Johan, his body guard, took the picture. So this is my one and only trophy with André and I am very proud of it! We did not exchange two words and I don't know whether André knows me, but I am especially happy with this photo because it was a spontaneous picture and not a forced and expensive "Meet and Greet" photo  ... Ineke

Han Scheuerman

Florist who Resides in Maastricht

From Han: Thirty years have passed since André gave his first concerts in the Staar gebouw (building where the male choir "Maastrichter Staar" is rehearsing) in Maastricht during the Hieringebiete (annual carnival). By that time we had already had our flower shop in the suburb of St. Peter for many years. The bouquets that were offered after André Rieu's performances were ordered from us. Towards the end of the concerts we would be in the wings with the flowers ready.

At that stage there was always a very pleasant atmosphere - not only in the hall, but also amongst the musicians. That became the basis for a healthy interest in the Rieu phenomenon! It has been quite fascinating to watch from such close quarters how André and the JSO conquered the world - from so small to so huge. 

From a business point of view we have always been involved with the Rieu Company. Particularly since the family moved to our suburb, St. Peter. We were familiar with the interior of their house as before them the house was inhabited by Jesuits. And because we used to decorate the crucifix at the corner of their house with a floral garland on Good Friday, we were invariably invited for coffee with an Easter egg.

The tradition of the garland of flowers still exists! Because we live in the same neighborhood we have regularly shared activities with Rieu; for instance, the Orchestra rehearsed in the gym across from our business. I often slipped inside to quietly enjoy the music in the corridor. The beautiful sounds often drove me to tears, with no one around me. But they were still a long way from the great success they are today.

To this day, I follow all their activities, including all interviews recorded around the world. I feel privileged to have been invited – along with my grandson Jamie – to the Castle for the recording of André’s Christmas special as a result of this connection. In those 5 days I experienced how closely the family worked together on this huge undertaking - Marjorie and Pierre have also left their mark on it. It was conceived, directed and edited frame by frame until it was merged into the sublime result, frame by frame. Only the best is acceptable.

(translation by Entia)

André Rieu Fans Before The Year 2000

Our Earliest André Rieu Fans

Who are the fans that have known André the longest??? That's what Ineke wondered on a rainy day in August 2014. We know all about André, but what do we know about the earliest fans (before the year 2000) who are still fans today (almost 20 years later!)? A continuing story - Each week we will feature a new fan. Here is Part 1: Sonja Harper and Ruth Morgan.

SONJA HARPER is from Dutch origin who lives in Ohio (USA) and has been a fan since 1995. In 2002 she started her own André Rieu Fan Website in the US (which we all know now as "Translations").

From Sonja: In April 1995, I was in Holland on vacation and my Dad and I were watching the semifinal of the UEFA Cup soccer. Dad has always been a sports fanatic. When I was young, we always watched soccer and speed skating together and went to the games and events. The semifinal was between the Ajax from Amsterdam; and the Bayern Munich from Munich, Germany. The first game of the semifinal was played in Munich and ended in 0-0. The second game was played in the Ajax stadium in Amsterdam and it was an extremely exciting game ... before half time Holland was ahead 3 to 1. So the fans were already going crazy.

Then half time started and on walked this man with long hair and a violin. What in the world was that - during such an important and exciting game they had a violinist? And then he started to play! It did not take long before all those soccer fans were singing and swaying along - Dutch and German alike. I believe there were 65,000 soccer fans singing, swaying and waving flags to Andre's Second Waltz. I was sold and Dad loved it too. At home, we too were singing ............. Ajax won the game 5 to 2 and André scored a major hit with that performance. Holland was Waltzing! André became the Waltz King. Of course I had to go back to the USA, but after that experience, whenever I was in Holland I would hunt for his CDs and videos.
  
In 1996, André was on PBS (American television) for the first time with 'From Holland with Love". And in 1997 he did his first US Tour. On November 10, 1997 he came to Ohio (the state where I live) and played at the Battelle Hall at the Columbus Convention Center. I went with a group of Dutch friends and we had a blast. My first concert was Columbus 1997, but the first time I actually talked to André was again in Columbus, but in 2002. That conversation with him is what made me start my Website.

For the promotion of the 1997 concert tour, PBS showed a video clip of André playing the Second Waltz in Amsterdam and Kinderdijk (the 19 windmills area). The whole video was so wonderful, that it made me homesick. I decided that I would love to have that video tape, so I called PBS to see if there would be any reruns so I could tape it. I was told it was a onetime commercial for André and they could not play it again. I really wanted that clip badly. So I kept looking for it on the Internet. 

Finally I located the people who made the video for André. I figured I can ask - so I called the company and spoke to a very nice lady. I explained to her what I wanted and she said she would be happy to send me a copy. It was of course in PAL, but I have a special video player which does play PAL. A week later it was in the mail with a very nice note. It is still one of my favorite videos from Andre. She also told me that the video had been planned for a while and finally they had set a date. but suddenly the weather changed and it was going to warm up a lot and they had to get it done in a real hurry. Everyone had to drop everything they had planned and film it in that day, because the following day the ice would not be thick enough anymore.

►To Watch The Very First Video Clip CLICK HERE

►CLICK HERE To Read The FULL ARTICLE About Sonja's Discovery of André

RUTH MORGAN: At the time Ruth and her husband Jim discovered André Rieu, they lived in Buffalo, New York. (They now live near Lake Tahoe, Nevada) Ruth scored the first photo with André ever, from 1997!! This is her story and the earliest photos ...

From Ruth: I have been a fan since February 1997, when I first saw Andre on my PBS channel in Buffalo, New York. In August 1997 André came to my Buffalo PBS Station where Jim and I volunteered to take pledges. André played “Meditation” while he was standing right in front of me. I recorded the program while I was in the studio on my VCR and have made a DVD from the video tape of him there. That's when Jim took the photo of me with André and of course I was very excited to meet André in person. (André was then 47 years of age).

My first concert was in Toronto's, Maple Leaf  Hockey Stadium and my second concert was at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC. Both concerts were in November of 1997. Since then I have been to about 85 André Rieu concerts in many countries including the USA, Canada, Netherlands, Germany, Austria, and Australia. The photo of Jim and I with André was taken at a "Meet and Greet Dinner" in a Toronto restaurant before my first concert in Toronto. We are still fans in 2014 and we have traveled already 11 times in a row to Maastricht to visit friends and attend the hometown concerts there.

(We Will Feature Another Fan Next Week!)

Mirusia Louwerse Announces Engagement! (Private Interview)

August 16, 2014: Mirusia in an interview she gave to Ineke exclusively for the Movies website and the Harmony Parlor. Thank you Mirusia, we feel very honored!!

How long have you known Youri?
I have known Youri for years since he works within the André Rieu organization, but it wasn’t until the King’s Coronation in Amsterdam when we saw one another again (after I had been living in Australia again for a year) that we really fell in love! We met in Mexico City and always had a good laugh with one another. He is such a funny guy and always knows how to make me laugh by doing something goofy.

When did you feel that he would be the one for you? 
After the King’s Coronation we stayed in touch and then after the Vrijthof concerts last year we started dating officially.

Is it the Youri we all know by face? The man from André's security team?
I hope you understand that I cannot talk about that, nor mention his last name, because Youri's contract does not allow me to.

How did Youri pop up the question?
He organized an incredibly romantic dinner. Suddenly after the main course, Giedrė and Agnes walked in playing their violins (I had no idea what they were doing there and was completely stunned) to the tune that Youri always sings for me. I recognized it almost

immediately and started laughing and crying at the same time. Then Marcel and Bob from the male choir walked in and started singing the lyrics that Youri had written for me. Then he got down on one knee and proposed to me and of course I said "YES!" He gave me a beautiful diamond ring. It was a very special moment shared with our close friends.

Which nationality is Youri?
Youri and I have exactly the same heritage: we are both 3/4 Dutch and 1/4 Polish . Except I was born in Australia and he was born in Holland!

Are you going to live in Maastricht together?
We are going to be moving to Maastricht together in September and we are very much looking forward to that.

(Newspaper Announcement Clipping is from Courier Mail Australia)

André Rieu in his "Hometown"

André Rieu in his "Hometown"

Chapeau Magazine by Ingrid Beckers - July 2014: This summer, André Rieu and his Johann Strauss Orchestra will play for the 10th consecutive year on the Vrijthof in Maastricht. Over a three weekend period, eight concerts will be presented, attended by an estimated 80,000 visitors. Estimates have it that more than half of the visitors are from outside the Benelux (Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxemburg) from more than eighty different countries. André Rieu has become a WORLDTRADE MARK, and his fans from all over, from Brazil to Australia, all come to see him perform, if only once, in this "Hometown". For Maastricht and the surrounding areas, it has an enormous economic impact. The hotels, restaurants and stores are doing as well in business as during the top art fair of TEFAF. Rieu is worth his weight in gold for the economics of his city.

Lights out - Spots on!!!!!!!

The André Rieu family

André Rieu and his colorful Johann Strauss Orchestra have been one big happy family for many years. This summer, they will once again be making a lot of music in their hometown. Lights out, spots on! Chapeau features 6 prominent musicians behind the world’s only real "King of Waltz. “Our lives revolve completely around André.”

“The cheerful atmosphere doesn’t cost me anything”

TEUN RAMAEKERS (59) Maastricht

Flutist, Johann Strauss Orchestra, since 1988

Flutist, Johann Strauss Orchestra since 1988: "Since the very beginning, I’ve felt at home with Rieu (like a fish in the water.) I'm not a classical musician per se and love to mix different types of music. I still hear people saying about André: ‘Whatever you do, you will never succeed.’ Consequently, it is marvelous to share his success all over the world. The public’s enthusiasm, their swaying, laughing, it's all part of it. The cheerful atmosphere arises spontaneously and doesn’t cost me anything. I have the most fun when I notice at a concert how grumpy men, dragged there by their wives, relax completely during the course of the evening. The concerts on the Vrijthof are always a feast – a party from the very first minute. Yes, for me, Maastricht with the whole atmosphere, the cafes’ verandas (terraces) around the square, is the highlight of the year. It is not for nothing that fans from around the world come here to attend André’s concerts in his hometown".

"The Schintaler is recreational to me"

ROGER DIEDEREN (44), PUTH

First trumpeter, Johann Strauss Orchestra, since 1992

"I did a lot of nice things with André and I’ve seen the world. However, I experienced my finest moment with Rieu here in Maastricht. My 13-year-old son, Romano, is a talented trumpet player. Last year André involved him in our concerts on the Vrijthof. We were introduced as father and son and performed two solos together. Romano found it very exciting, everything went well. I was so proud! Later my son joined the Orchestra on a trip to Mexico for a private concert between genuine Mayan pyramids. Quite an experience for a young boy. In our region I have been playing in De Schintaler. This polka band disbanded in 2010, but regrouped again in 2013 and gives a few concerts a year. Often it is quite difficult to manage to perform at all the concerts. André grants me the freedom to do so, since De Schintaler provides a recreational outlet for me; pure relaxation on a high level."

“All over the world with Maastricht's Carillon”

FRANK STEIJNS (43) MAASTRICHT

Violinist, Johann Strauss Orchestra since 1994

“Apart from being a violinist at André Rieu’s, I am also the city carillon player of Maastricht. The weekends when I’m home, I play the city’s historic bells (carillon) in the tower of the town hall on Saturday. It is two very different worlds, but I, as a classical musician, cannot do without either one. André has brought those worlds together in a way that only he can. During the Vrijthof concerts in 2005, I played with the orchestra on the carillon of the St. Servaas Church. The public’s response was so enthusiastic that André decided to have a mobile set of bells (carillon) constructed that we could take along on tours. I have played the emotional Concert d’Aranguez on that small carillon in 120 cities across the world; from Los Angeles to Vancouver. Since then I have become better known as a bell ringer in Shanghai than here in Maastricht, ha-ha. The way in which André promotes Limburg all over the world is praiseworthy. From my small tower on the Market Square I still see tourists with cameras listening to the bells.”

"My girlhood dream came true"

TANJA DERWAHL (41) MAASTRICHT

Cellist, Johan Strauss orchestra since 1997

"As a girl of ten I saw André and his orchestra perform in Belgium. Everyone was so happy and then those beautiful dresses... fantastic! I knew right then that that was what I would like to do later! After my training at the Conservatory I was allowed to play with André. With that my girlhood dream came true. I like to sit on stage with great enthusiasm. During my time at the Conservatory I sometimes played the cello with other orchestras. Then I would think to myself: Have I been studying so hard for seven years to simply disappear in a dark orchestra pit? No, that was not for me. We present a classical entertainment show. My mission is to make people happy with the talent that I’ve been given. But it is very hard work; like a super athlete. Sometimes I miss my family very much while we are travelling. However, I feel privileged to be able to do this work. It still thrills me to see ten thousand people going home smiling, after we've played for three hours.

“It is a way of life”

STEPHANY DETRY (40) Liège.

Pianist, Johann Strauss Orchestra since 1997

“I find it impressive time and again to see what André

does for his fans. With his music and image, he knows how to connect people and make them happy. It seems as if they do get to like one another more during a concert. As the pianist, I am one of the pillars of the orchestra; a great role. To perform with André is more than simply a great job; it is a way of life to which you commit yourself. I travel for half of the year which is not always easy with a husband and baby at home. Now that I am a mother, everything needs to find a new place. But other orchestra members have managed to do this before me, so I am sure I too will succeed. Fortunately André takes good care of us while we travel. With good food, nice hotels and sufficient room to occasionally withdraw. I need that. No matter how close we orchestra members are, occasionally I need to be on my own.”

"Life may continue like this forever"

AGNES FIZZANO WALTER (34) MAASTRICHT

Violinist, JSO, Since 2005

'You're the smile behind André,’ said a fan in my native Poland. At concerts I sit right behind Rieu. It is a very special role: I'm always in the picture; everything I do gets noticed and for that reason many colleagues do not want to sit there. I, on the contrary, enjoy it and am proud to be in the spotlight. As a member of the Orchestra I feel like an absolute star. Many fans know us all by name. The whole atmosphere, the fun on stage, the travelling ... to me this kind of life may continue forever. The beauty of it all is that I can share this passion with my husband. He is video editor at the Rieu company. There’s been a spark between us from the very first moment we saw each other in the studio. We are now married, have been together for eight years, and yes, we like sharing our hotel room, ha-ha-ha! Children? That is not going to happen. In our lives, everything revolves around André and his music!"

Translation by Entia

In Memory Of

Susan and Howard Horder are among the victims of the Malaysian Flight that was shot down. They were on their way home to Australia from the concerts in Maastricht. We are so sad and they will be missed by all of us ...

The photo was taken last week at the Fan Dinner in Maastricht.

Rieu Fan's Reunion Becoming Ever Busier

The 160 fans after their Friday-evening dinner on the boat. 
They concluded the proceedings with a heartfelt rendition of ABBA’s Thank You for the Music.

André Rieu Reunion Becoming Ever Busier

Concert Series: Couple from The Hague organizes dinners and picnics for fan club with eighteen nationalities

De Limburger, Monday, July 14, 2014 by John Hoofs: A lot of things happen in the ‘margins’ of the Rieu concerts. A fan group with members from 18 nationalities met for dinner for the tenth year running in Maastricht.

Dancing with a hundred year old nun is the talk of the day after Rieu’s Friday concert.
  
There was much giggling at the pond in the city park this past Saturday afternoon. And that’s not because of the huge fallen tree that’s been lying there – partly submerged in the water – since Thursday, but because of André Rieu’s concert the previous evening. The reason: André left the stage to help a hundred-year-old nun from her wheelchair, danced with her and even bestow three kisses on her cheeks. Just the idea of Rieu leaving the stage to dance with a fan is sufficient to cause havoc amongst his avid followers. "Facebook exploded with jealousy at that moment" laughs Ineke Elshout. "So nice" echoes her husband Ruud. The Hague couple is responsible for the gathering of roughly seventy Rieu fans in the park for a picnic to which you bring your own snacks and drinks.

Ineke and Ruud Elshout understand the fandom surrounding André Rieu. They have been following him since before his big breakthrough. Ruud estimates that they must have attended about eighty of his concerts. "More, at least a hundred," interjects Ineke. The couple has been part of the party in Maastricht since the very first Rieu concert on the Vrijthof. They have viewed and captured all the performances on camera. That is their hobby. Half-way through the show, images from Friday’s concert were already on www.andrerieumovies.com; complete with subtitles.

Together with the hotel management, Ruud Elshout was instrumental in having a webcam with sound installed next to the balcony of their suite in the Hotel Du Casque; the semi-permanent abode of the couple when they are in Maastricht. Every movement on the Vrijthof is recorded and sent around the world. The images are even seen in New Zealand. Why? Because the Elshouts have been organizing a fan dinner since the first Rieu concert on the Vrijthof. They started ten years ago in D'n Ingel on the Vrijthof with fifteen people, mainly Dutch. Thereafter, Charlemagne on the Onze Lieve Vrouwe (Our Dear Lady) Square, became the following stop. With sixty diners this venue soon became too small. Thus the fan dinner moved to one of the party boats of the Rederij Stiphout (shipping company) on the Maas Pier, where last Friday at 4:30 PM, 160 fans from eighteen nationalities – a record number – gathered for a buffet dinner.

The British were in the majority, but were joined by fans from Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, South Africa, Malta, Ireland, Sweden, USA and, the latest members, a mother and a son from Estonia. "For us the Rieu Concert series is a great reunion, which starts on Thursday afternoon on the terrace of our favorite hangout, the restaurant Gauchos, on the Vrijthof, " says Ineke Elshout. Strangely enough, they have never met André Rieu in person. "He likes to keep some distance between himself and his fans and quite rightly so. We understand why. Allow him to give beautiful concerts, and then we will organize everything around them. We admire André’s musical talent, his charisma and his jokes, which we all know by now – all of them, of course."

Thank You to Ruud and Ineke for sending the newspaper and Entia Translating it

"Amira" Realizes Her Dream With André Rieu

Holland’s Got Talent Winner Amira

 Realizes Her Dream on The Vrijthof

July 12, 2014 Laurens Bouvrie: During Friday’s concert, Andre Rieu granted the audience more time than usual to return to their seats on the Vrijthof after the intermission. But that was not without good reason. The (wonder) girl from Nijmegen, Amira Willighagen, made an appearance on-stage. For those who do not know: the then 9-year-old girl dominated last year’s edition of Holland's Got Talent which she eventually also won. And she did not win by performing the song of a contemporary pop star. She had the whole of the Netherlands entranced with her rendition of Puccini’s O Mio Bambino Caro. Last night, just after ten,

Amira’s dream of performing with the world-renowned Maastricht artist came true and will be repeated on Saturday evening. Once again, just as during her performances on the talent program, the child star pulled out all the stops with her performance, which earned her a standing ovation.

►The nightingale from Gelderland has already had a previous professional meeting with Andre Rieu. Earlier this year, he invited her to participate in a master class in London. For the past week, Amira – who created a sensation late last year with her brilliant performances in Holland’s Got Talent – has been rehearsing at Rieu’s studio in North Amby. Today, just as she did yesterday, she will stick to performing one aria. According to Radio Gelderland, the child prodigy will leave for Switzerland with her family next week. There she will participate in a music festival for children from all over the world.

Three mayors and a prince. They have already met once before at the Struys (the Vogelstruys pub), but then it was four former mayors and thethen Henri Hochstenbach. Jan Mans was also present at the opening of Jack Vreeke’s exhibition at the Carnival in 2012, while he was the acting mayor of Maastricht. Current mayor, Onno Hoes (r), Philippe Houben (second from right) and Gerd Leers (third from left) were all invited to Friday evening’s concert. It was Rieu’s way of thanking the city of Maastricht for its support during 10 years of Vrijthof concerts. To the left of Gerd Leers is his wife, Genoveef Leers, and Hoes's partner, Albert Verlinde. 

Guus Meeuwis (singer and song writer), the pride of the province of North Brabant, is also visiting worldstar Rieu the most famous “Maastrichtenaar” of all time. 

But Rieu did not only have one surprise for the public. He invited - as a gesture of appreciation to the City of Maastricht – the three mayors during whose terms of office he not only made a name for himself, but rose to stardom – a fame which is still intensifying across the world. This year marks the 10th anniversary of Rieu’s summer performances at the Vrijthof. Philip Houben, Gerd Leers and Onno Hoes sat together amicably in the first row. During the intermission they enjoyed a bottle of wine with the now former “stadsprins”, Henri I, who is also the manager of the café, In den Ouden Vogelstruys.

We will publish a comprehensive report on last night’s Rieu concert later today. Extra attention will be given to the fans of the Maastricht world-star.

Translation by Entia

Maastricht 2014 Fan Dinner

Photo by Al Girard
(The 2014 fan dinner: 160 people of 17 nationalities)

Friday Night Concert on The Vrijthof

Two highlights of tonight's concert were (Left) André coming off the stage to dance with the 100 year old Nun who he had surprised at her 100th Birthday Party and told her he would dance with her on the Vrijthof this year. On the (Right)  9 year old Amira Willighagen, winner of this years Holland's Got Talent, singing 'O Mio Babino Caro'.

Grand Entrance to Vrijthof

André Rieu in “Duck City”!

André Rieu in “Duck City” After Visiting Many Metropolises

MAASTRICHT: The world-renowned Maastricht star has been enriched by yet another new experience. After countless trips around the world, interviews with all the major newspapers and encounters with the greats, he has, since this morning, had the honor of being a temporary resident of Duck City.

In a special issue of Donald Duck, which launched this morning in the Rieu-studios in the Withuisveld in Amby, the world-famous duck does not play first – but second – fiddle. The true star, however, is a dog from Maastricht, called André De Reu.

As a simple coin polisher (“muntjespoetser”) Donald stands in the shadow of the great orchestra leader André De Reu, whose violin is stolen. We don’t want to reveal more at the moment, but Donald Duck would not be Donald Duck if he does not ultimately land on his feet. It’s nice to know that in Duck City the Dog does not start with a march, such as the Radetsky in Maastricht, but with The Donald Waltz.

It is with good reason that this special honor was bestowed on André Rieu. The cheerful weekly wants to motivate children to strive to attain their dream jobs. Each month a celebrity in a particular field – ranging from biologist, to actor, astronaut, fashion designer - and now also the conductor and orchestra leader, André Rieu, is featured in a playful way to provide inspiration.

Translated by Entia

(Below Entia has translated what is being said in the video)

 ►Click HERE To Watch Video With André

AR-DD video translation: News reader: Monique Smit (singer), Sven Kramer (Olympic long track speed skater) and Georgina Verbaan (actress and singer) have all featured in Donald Duck. However, the latest star is André Rieu. The first issue was presented to the world-renowned violinist in Maastricht.

Interviewer: Did you have any say in the story?

André Rieu: No, not at all. I only saw it after completion.

Interviewer: What is it about?

André Rieu: Briefly, it is about my violin being stolen and then found again. Is that correct? That is a short synopsis.

Interviewer: Let’s have a look at the (comic) strip itself……you seem to resemble an animal?

André Rieu: Yes, closely. Very closely, don't you agree?

Maastricht A Predictable Party But a Gem Nonetheless

A Predictable Party ~ But a Gem Nonetheless

Attended: André Rieu on the Vrijthof Maastricht 2014 ~ When: July 4th

The Limburger by Ruud Maas: He has been standing on this spot for exactly the past ten years; exactly twenty years after he rose to the top position of the charts for ten weeks with his performance of a hitherto barely known waltz , which would keep him in the top ten for a year.

The success of André Rieu has since increased enormously, and his ranking amidst the world’s top performers was once again validated on Friday night by the 64 year olds impressive performance. During a concert lasting nearly 3.5 hours, he gave his Johan Strauss Orchestra, but especially his soloists, ample opportunity to excel.

The Australian singer Mirusia Louwerse’s rendition of I Belong To Me (from the musical Elisabeth) and Caro Nome (from Verdi’s Rigoletto) by Carla Maffioletti rivaled each other for the distinction of being highlight of the evening. These two voices are just about the most beautiful that have ever been heard on the Vrijthof.

Critics agree that what Rieu is doing in 2014 does not differ drastically from the format employed for the first time in 2005 at the Vrijthof. There were the customary winks, feeble jokes, shenanigans of orchestra members and almost cult-like costumes and stage sets that give a distinctive Rieu flavor to so many concerts. After all, why would you deviate from a successful formula?

The orchestra leader ‘preaches’ that the world would be very different if we all sang together, and alleges that even doctors prescribe his music because, according to them, Rieu's DVD's are the best medicine for healing. But that is perhaps taking it a bit too far. However, that the violinist with his concerts instills an appreciation for popular classical music in a large portion of the population is undeniable.

What then distinguishes the 2014 edition from that of previous years? The presence of the Belgian-Italian singer, Rocco Granata, who turned the Vrijthof into a crazy dance palace with his biggest hit, Marina, after a beautiful rendition of Buona Notte Bambino, is one such aspect. The sound of a lot of Italian music, because Rieu is bringing out a new CD – Love In Venice – is another aspect that added a distinct Venetian flavor to this Vrijthof concert. From a musical point of view the theme could have undoubtedly been further extended, just as the extensively decorated St Servaas Church and the Old Military Building could have been incorporated into the concert to a much greater extent. Musically speaking – from the tear-jerkers to the polonaise pieces everything was predictable, but the same cannot be said of the technical adeptness, which was in a class of its own.

Not withstanding the criticisms, Rieu’s celebration of ten years on the Vrijthof is a party not to be missed or you will sorely regret it. And did the absence of Andrea Bocelli and Zucchero detract from the spectacle? It is questionable whether even they could have contributed more to a brilliant evening.

Translated by Entia

Without a Ticket in The First Row

Without a Ticket in The First Row

The Limburger July 7, 2014: If André is performing in your front yard, you don't need a ticket. Residents of Maastricht’s Vrijthof have been treated (whether they like it or not) for the last ten years, to the concerts of the famous violinist in his hometown. Others have to pay a fortune for a hotel room with a comparable view.

According to hard-core Rieu fans, Ruud and Ineke Elshout, two of the best tickets on the Vrijthof will cost € 190. They estimate that a hotel room with a phenomenal view of the Vrijthof square costs € 160 a night. But it is not the cost aspect that motivates the couple at the start of the tenth concert series to watch it from their room, no. 410 of Hotel DuCasque. Definitely not; the couple has booked a hotel room for each nights of the concert series. Furthermore, they have also purchased concert tickets. They have been doing this for the past ten years; they have never skipped a single concert in Maastricht. After the first concert weekend they go home, only to return again on Thursday to check in for another 12 days. The Rieu Hobby is definitely expensive!

On the other side of the Vrijthof Square, Monique Thelen and her sister-in-law, Andrea, are sitting in the window sill of her apartment on the Vrijthof. The high windows are wide open with pillows to sit on in the window sill. They also have a magnificent view; they can watch the swaying mass on the square as well as the people having dinner on the terraces. And if you lean a little forward, you can also follow the concert on a big screen. The sound is perfect and it is free. "Just to see the people outside in the street on the terraces is a treat for me. And the concert is an extra bonus. Everyone is working so hard. It looks like one big Rieu family." Monique Thelen has also never missed a Rieu concert, although to her it is somewhat obligatory. If she wants to skip a concert she has to leave her house. However, she has no problems with the violinist occupying her front yard for almost a month. "Of course I don’t watch every concert from beginning to end, but enjoy a part of it every evening." Her husband, Piet Nelissen, is rather more critical, mainly because of the accessibility of their apartment. When he wants to have visitors during the Rieu concerts, he has to obtain visitors passes for them to ensure access to his front door and he only has ten per evening. "If I want more, I have to submit a request with valid reasons." The Rieu concerts have drawn many guests to their home during the past couple of years. "Initially we sometimes had sixty or seventy guests: friends, relatives, business acquaintances. But Monique found it too much. Nowadays we take things calmer. And demand has also slowed down. At some stage it does become somewhat repetitive." On this Friday evening it is quieter; only four guests on the balcony and the window sill.

Back to the hotel where Ruud and Ineke have an excellent view of the stage from their balcony. They can follow everything perfectly; not only the concert, but also the preparations, rehearsals, sound checks and cleaning sessions. This is the real reason why they prefer the room to the folding chairs on the square. Their video camera, fixed to the edge of the balcony, is recording all the time. The videos will be posted on their website for fans all over the world to enjoy. Ruud and Ineke know the program and Rieu's jokes almost better than the violinist himself. They know exactly when the fireworks are set to appear. "If I tell you that in two seconds the first rocket will soar into the air..." And yes….. No matter how many times they watch Rieu's concerts, it never becomes boring, says the couple. Every concert is different. However, over the years, the performances became less important, whereas the contact with the fans from all over the world took precedence. "Sometimes I just feel like a tourist office", Ineke adds. Fans from all parts of the world know where to find them; their room is always open to visitors. Cheese and nuts are served on plastic plates. They like it this way, even after all these years. When they check out of the hotel, the first thing they do is to make a reservation for the following year.

 Translation by Entia

Here's our John and Bobbie!

In front of the Theater Steps in Maastricht
(Photo taken by Doro)

And Here is Ineke and Ruud!
On Their Hotel Balcony in Maastricht

NEW VIDEO ON THE MOVIE SITE

Dress Rehearsal July 3rd, 2014

Today not one but two rehearsals, one at 5 PM (sound check) and one at 8 PM. During these rehearsals, the crew can setup the microphones, light, background etc. See how Andre is involved with all details, a microphone level set incorrectly: he stops and have it checked/adjusted. Regularly he walks away from the stage to a point halfway on the Vrijthof, to hear what the audience will hear. This year there was a surprise visit by the mayor of Maastricht, Mr. Onno Hoes. Happy viewing! The video below will last 50 minute ... Ruud

►Click HERE To Watch Video

André Rieu Receives His First City Guide

André Rieu Receives His First City Guide

The first copy of the first André Rieu Maastricht City Guide is accepted by André Rieu. It was awarded to him by Jo Cortenraedt, editor of Chapeau Magazine, where the guide was produced. This English language booklet guides foreign visitors to the upcoming concert on the Vrijthof and around in the city. There are also personal tips from the famous Maastricht musician. The guide has a circulation of 15,000 copies and is distributed through, inter alia, the hotels, restaurants and shops in Maastricht.