Welcome to the Muziekgebouw: Amsterdam's unique concert hall
The Muziekgebouw is one of the most unique-looking buildings in Amsterdam. Its glass boxes stand proudly on the banks of the IJ; modern, exciting and inviting. More importantly, however, is its ground-breaking acoustics that make attending a concert here feel like a complete immersion in sound, while many musicians rate it as their favourite place to play.
With a rich and varied programme of music on offer, ranging from classical and contemporary to global sounds and jazz, there isn't a better place in Amsterdam for the music-lover.
Two halls, one building
The Muziekgebouw is home to two different halls: the Grote Zaal (main hall) and the Kleine Zaal (small hall). However, concerts take place throughout the entire building. Concerts are regularly performed in the entrance hall and outside on the terrace, which overlooks the IJ. The loading dock and the atrium are also known to host performances on special occasions.
Additionally, another organisation is located adjacent: Bimhuis, a versatile space for jazz and world music, as well as electronic music, talks and exhibitions.
One of the most unique and innovative features of the Muziekgebouw is that the halls' layout can be rearranged as required, meaning the acoustics also change based on the type of concert. Whether you are attending an intimate rehearsal of a chamber orchestra or a full symphony, the room will be crafted to ensure the sound is perfect and you have a clear view of the stage.
While each hall was designed for optimal acoustics, the building itself is designed to be a welcoming public space, one that is light, open, easy to move around, and a place for everyone. Its stunning location on the IJ means its waterfront plaza and cafe draw in people who might otherwise not consider entering a concert hall, and then its exciting programming encourages them to stay.
Photo credit: Thiemi-Higashi
Something for everybody
The Muziekgebouw presents around 300 concerts every season, including dozens of world or Dutch premieres. With such a large programme, it can be daring and bold. The venue's programme always aims to focus on "now", be that with modern, new compositions, unique one-off performances, or a new rendition of a classic piece.
They want everyone to be able to find something adventurous to enjoy, and they understand that what counts as adventurous is different for everyone, resulting in a broad and eclectic mix of events. Muziekgebouw even collaborates with artists to create a multi-sensory experience of walking around the building. Take the current artwork In Fis, by Paulien Barbas, for instance: a whistling bridge, a revolving door that sets off a tone, a handrail that hums as your hand passes over it. Visitors make sonic and architectural discoveries using their senses as they move through the building.
Each season's programme is organised into different themes, which help to organise the wide variety of shows, and help audience members find other performances they might be interested in. Some of the current season's themes include Best of Turkey, Great Cellists, Orchestra of the Eighteenth Century, and The Rest is Noise, demonstrating just how broad a spectrum their concerts cover.
Photo credit: Erik van Gurp
From learning the ropes to world-famous
Because of its incredible acoustics, the Muziekgebouw is a favourite place for many touring musicians and ensembles to play, and its stage is often frequented by artists famous around the world. From top flamencoists such as Dani de Morón to Norwegian avant-garde pop stars like Jenny Hval, you can see the world's best artists right here in Amsterdam.
In addition, the Muziekgebouw believes in supporting the next generation of creators. In addition to featuring numerous young artists on the bill, they also schedule concerts specifically for toddlers and children, giving them the chance to be excited about live music from an early age. There are also SoundLAB workshops on making music that anyone can join, as well as educational programmes for those looking to make music their career.
Pay the Muziekgebouw a visit
The concert hall is just a 15-minute walk from Amsterdam Centraal train station, or an even shorter tram ride, and there's plenty of underground parking for your car or bike. Before the concert, you can enjoy coffee in the cafe. So why not take a look at the agenda and see what grabs your attention?