In the last edition of Luister Magazine (No.763 - April 2022), Myrthe Meester interviewed Stijn Berkouwer and me about our upcoming project, Staat Sterk, with the Netherlands Student Chamber Orchestra (Nesko).
During the interview, I had the opportunity to delve into my new composition, "Through Windows of Desire," which Nesko commissioned and Fonds Podiumkunsten generously funded. I was particularly inspired by the revolutionary Persian poet Forugh Farrokhzad (1934-1967) and her profound poetry, which formed the core of my composition.
Furthermore, I discussed the resilience of powerful women like Forugh, who have persistently battled for their rights and voiced their unattainable desires and emotions within suppressive and traditional societies—an issue that remains universally relevant.
I also explored the ways in which I connected the themes of Nesko's concert tour, "Staat Sterk" (translated as "Stands Strong" in English), with my new composition, "Through Windows of Desire."
"... We must continue the work of Farrokhzad, Farrenc and many others, retelling forgotten stories and rewriting history." Luister Magazine No.763, Myrthe Meester (original text in Dutch)
* a very warm thanks to my dear Vink Beijer and Nesko for arranging this interview.
* Read more on Luister.nl