This modern concrete open-air theater is “De Brug van Vroenhoven.” This location in Belgian Limburg is strewn with metronomes for this Stairway to Music performance. A metronome is a device that helps musicians practice their tempo (especially during rehearsals). “Poème Symphonique” is a work by the Hungarian composer György Ligeti. In this piece, 100 metronomes are scattered throughout the space. It is known as an “event composition,” focusing less on the musicians‘ performance of the music and the notes being played, and more on the concept and its development.

“Poème Symphonique” was also performed by Het Muziek in the concert “Happy 100: György!” celebrating the birthday of composer György Kurtág on February 18, 2026.

Karima El Fillali here singing an improvisation based on a poem from Ibn Arabi, was born into a family of Dutch seafarers and Moroccan migrants and grew up on the cusp of two worlds.

Stairway to Music is an online compilation of Het Muziek’s work, featuring gems from our music archive and brand-new compositions. A musical and cinematic exploration, filmed at unique locations in the Netherlands (and this one in Belgium!). A staircase features in every film!

Credits

Vocals Karima el Fillali

Trombone Koen Kaptijn

Edit Ruut van der Beele

Audio Koen Keevel

Styling Fleur Ouwerkerk

Designs David Laport, SKUA Studio, Vanderwilt, Fleur Ouwerkerk via X BANK