Opera Composers in the Netherlands: a Panoply of Diversity
Contrary to what our reputation as a down-to-earth, no-nonsense people might suggest, opera is flourishing in the Netherlands. Take note however that the term covers a wide range of appearances, varying from short, purely instrumental solo pieces for a single instrument to full-length operas for choir, orchestra and soloists, and everything in between. Nor is the performance space strictly defined: this may just as easily be a traditional opera house, a deserted factory, or even the open field. There are three major opera companies, of which Dutch National Opera is probably best known abroad. There are also two smaller, touring companies: De Nederlandse Reisopera (Dutch National Touring Opera), based in Enschede, Eastern Netherlands and Opera Zuid (Opera South), stationed in Maastricht, Southern Netherlands. In addition, there is a plethora of smaller organizations and festivals that cater for different audience groups. This article highlights some notable new operas by Dutch composers that have been produced in recent years.