A Maastricht treat from the King of the Walts
A CONCERT by the King of the Waltz, André Rieu, one of the world’s biggest selling touring musicians, will be screened via satellite to over 500 cinemas around the UK this summer. Amore - My Tribute to Love – will be performed by the violinist with his Johann Strauss Orchestra in his hometown of Maastricht. We find out more from the man himself
WHAT kind of pieces will be performed in the concert?
There will be a special focus on romance and love during the evening. I will be playing all kinds of pieces during the concert; wonderful waltzes will be heard but also outstanding arias from famous operas, beloved melodies from movies and musicals, and so much more.
What is it about Maastricht that you love so much?
I love to be a citizen of the oldest city in the Netherlands. Maastricht is the proud ‘owner’ of a rich history that goes back for more than 2,000 years. The Romans loved it - remains of an ancient swimming pool (thermae) can be found in the centre of town. And there are
also some beautiful churches from the Middle Ages... I used to be a choir boy in one of them. Maastricht is situated quite central in Europe, too: it is next to both the Belgian and the German border, and within two hours, you are able to reach London or Paris.
What do you think it is about these kind of cinema shows that are so appealing to audiences?
Through them I am able to get people acquainted with my concerts across the world. Of course, thousands of men and women from over 80 nations come to Maastricht (to see our concerts) which makes me very proud. This year we will be performing a record-breaking 13 open air concerts and expect 150.000 people. Can you imagine?
I have heard that people were dancing in the aisles of the cinemas last year. Isn’t that great? It is a rather new concept - classical concerts in cinemas. I always try to give people something for the eye as well so I am very proud and happy about the popularity of my concerts on the big screen.
What is it about the waltz?
The waltz is that type of composition that holds all emotions, whether it is joy or sadness, happiness or melancholy... you are able to hear everything in it. It also has a healing power. A waltz a day keeps the doctor away!
How is it for you performing with the same orchestra for over 30 years?
My orchestra feels like a big family, since we share everything during long periods touring abroad. There is a lot of laughter (very important) but moments of sorrow and sadness as well, occasionally. My wife, sons and grandchildren are my small family. My orchestra is my big family. And both are very dear to me. The concerts will be broadcast on July 28 and 29 at various cinemas across the East Midlands including Showcase, Cineworld, Savoy, Odeon, Vue and Regal. Full listings at intl. andreincinemas.com.
Cinema-goers can win the chance to have a waltz dedicated to a loved one during the screenings. To enter go to intl. andreincinemas.com/ dedications.