What drives humans to explore? In her new composition The Song of Koios, composer Mathilde Wantenaar gives musical expression to human curiosity in an adventurous journey filled with science, history, imagination, and wonder — for young and old alike.
The star of composer Mathilde Wantenaar (1993) is rapidly rising. In this monumental new work—a world premiere—she takes us into a world where science and music meet.
Koios means “to ask questions.” The Song of Koios — an evening-length work presented under the title Dear Professor — centers on the unstoppable scientific curiosity of humans, which can lead to both progress and destruction. Wantenaar composed three brand-new movements as a continuation of her successful chamber opera Dear Professor Einstein (2022), for which librettist Willem Bruls used letters from children to Albert Einstein. Fascinating figures such as Aristotle, Alexander von Humboldt, Charles Darwin, Marie Curie, and Albert Einstein take us on a journey through time. With visuals, words, and music, the Netherlands Chamber Choir and ensemble bring to life humanity’s quest for knowledge and meaning, in the stunningly simple yet highly effective staging and direction by Yannick Verweij and Kenza Koutchoukali.
The Song of Koios is an adventurous journey of discovery for young and old alike—from the very beginning to the unknown end—a search for the secrets of creation.
Each concert starts with a short, philosophical lecture by Ineke Sluiter.
On Friday 24 April, we bring Dear Professor to De Balie for an evening of debate, music, and speakers.
Led by moderator Yoeri Albrecht, we will explore the themes voiced in Dear Professor. Featuring contributions by, among others, scholar Ineke Sluiter, framed by the new work by Mathilde Wantenaar, performed by our singers.
Friday 24 April | 20:00
De Balie, Amsterdam
