Thirteen pre-selected ensembles and makers pitched their ideas last Saturday afternoon at the NedPhO-koepel during the Grachtenfestival weekend. During eight minutes, the ensembles had to convince the jury of their idea, in the categories classical from allover the world, crossover, the festival theme of 2020 'Wonder' and specific age group.
To the jury, consisting of Ab Nieuwdorp (presenter Radio 4 and artistic advisor Grachtenfestival), Caecilia Thunissen (artistic director of Oorkaan) and Lestari Scholtes (main programmer Grachtenfestival), the heavy task of making a selection of a winner in each category.
Winner in the category 'Wonder': YenTing Lo
At the end of the afternoon, the lucky winners were chosen: ensemble Nachtlicht convinced the jury with a music mix of classical, jazz and world music from several Asian countries and won the prize in the category 'classical from allover the world'. Also, the ensemble received the 'Oorkaanprijs', the prize for the pitch with the most promissing stage presentation. Nachtlincht won a three-day master class in the unique Oorkaan method: workshops in making theatrical concerts.
Record player and maker Emily Bannister won the prize in the 'cross-over' category. With contemporary and early music, she wants to tell a story about the power of women. YenTing Lo received the prize for the 'Wonder' theme. Together with her band and the Cheng Quartet, she combines the miracle of nature with music.
All winners can be admired during the Grachtenfestival this summer.
