WITH many people around the world not able to attend live concerts this year, violin maestro Andre Rieu is bringing the concert experience into fans' living rooms, just in time for Christmas.
The Dutch 'King of Waltz' said he and his Johann Strauss Orchestra, like many musicians around the world, have been deeply affected by the pandemic, unable to perform a single concert.
He said it has been heartbreaking not being able to make music together and be with his fans, who have been spending a lot of time at home.
But from this Saturday, December 19, Aussies can watch Magical Maastricht - a 150-minute online concert including all the highlights of his world-famous Vrijthof concerts - from the comfort of their own home.
"This summer unfortunately you couldn't come to Maastricht, and I thought why not bring Maastricht to you!" Rieu said in a statement to his fans.
"Myself and [my wife] Marjorie have chosen some of our favourite performances of the last 15 years on the big square here in my hometown. Looking back at these concerts we laughed and we cried and I'm sure you will go through the same emotions.
"It's full of nostalgia and makes me want to jump on stage right now! I wish every single one of you a happy and healthy Christmas - and I hope this special concert lifts your spirits and fills your hearts with joy.
"I've always said music brings people together and I'm so happy we can spend a few hours together this Christmas and rejoice in music! Much love!
Magical Maastricht features popular classics, songs from opera, film and musical, enchanting waltzes and special guests including Jermaine Jackson, David Hasselhoff, Los del Rio, the late Trini Lopez.
Relive some of André's greatest performances such as Lara's Theme from Doctor Zhivago, danced by 300 professional dancing couples or the Parade of the Charioteers from the movie Ben Hur.
The show also includes uplifting performances of You Raise Me Up, Volare, You'll Never Walk Alone, Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again, Amigos para siempre and The Blue Danube.
The concert is available to stream to your device from andrerieu.com from December 19.
- Tickets are 12 Euros (around $20). To buy a ticket go to www.andrerieu.com
- Then the concert is available to stream on your preferred advice from December 19 to January 3. You can enjoy up to three streamings with family and friends.
Geraldine Cardozo
Features Editor at The Senior.
Features Editor at The Senior.
