Happy Birthday, USA!

In 2026, the United States celebrates its 250^th anniversary, and what better way to mark this milestone than with music that reflects this country’s soul? This concert brings together three iconic American composers, each with their unique voice and style, but all deeply rooted in their country’s musical traditions.

Leonard Bernstein's Clarinet Sonata opened the door to a career brimming with innovation and a fusion of classical, jazz and Broadway. This early work, both energetic and lyrical at the same time, reflects young Bernstein's lively spirit and displays all his characteristic flair and rhythmic playfulness.

In Aaron Copland's Clarinet Sonata we dive deeper into the lyrical and spatial soundscape that earned him the title "father of American music". His sonata breathes the vast landscapes of the US, with cinematic melodies and subtle folk influences.

Our concert ends with the sparkling and rhythmically irresistible The Cape Cod Files by Paquito D’Rivera, in which jazz, blues, tango and Latin-American influences come together in a virtuosic and compelling work.

Belgian clarinetist Annelien Van Wauwe, former BBC New Generation Artist, is a Borletti Buitoni Trust Award winner and winner of the ARD International Music Competition. She is known for her expressive, lyrical and virtuosic performances and is considered one of the most captivating and original clarinetists of her generation worldwide. She is a popular guest in prestigious music halls such as Tonhalle Zürich, Bozar in Brussels, Philharmonie Berlin, Konzerthaus Berlin, Wiener Konzerthaus, Wigmore Hall and Concertgebouw Amsterdam.

German-Greek pianist Danae Dörken belongs to a new generation of artists who stand out for their flawless mastery of piano technique, exceptional stage presence and depth of interpretations. She studied with renowned teachers such as Karl-Heinz Kämmerling and Lars Vogt. Dörken performs in leading European concert halls, including the Philharmonie de Paris, the Wiener Konzerthaus and the Wigmore Hall in London.

• Leonard Bernstein, Clarinet Sonata
• Aaron Copland, Clarinet Sonata
• Paquito D’Rivera, The Cape Cod File

Press

“Soloist Annelien Van Wauwe, gave a stunning performance with a wonderful sense of phrasing and meandering effortlessly across upper and lower registers.” (****Bachtrack)

More info

annelienvanwauwe.com
danae-doerken.com

with Annelien Van Wauwe (clarinet) and Danae Dörken (piano) photo Joëlle Van Autreve