BRUGES, Belgium — In October, Dutch-language broadcaster VRT’s classical station Klara organized the 5th edition of “Iedereen Klassiek” (“Everybody Goes Classical”) in collaboration with the Concertgebouw concert house, the city of Bruges and cultural events coordinator, Brugge Plus.
The one-day event drew in more than 11,000 classical music fans to Bruges’ historical center. “Iedereen Klassiek” was staged at the Concertgebouw venue, but classical music could be found throughout the city.
The Concertgebouw was the central meeting place for the festival, which featured a broad program, including Bach, Vivaldi and a vintage Decap dance organ.
From 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Klara broadcast live from Concertgebouw’s entrance hall studio, while Concertgebouw-affiliated youth organization Soundcast sent its young reporters out to contribute live reports from around the city.
Outside the Concertgebouw, Bruges’ musical invasion gained momentum with concerts taking place in historical houses of worship, public gardens and in people’s living rooms.
“Iedereen Klassiek has become an important event for those who love classical music,” said Chantal Pattyn, Klara station manager and VRT culture manager.
“Klara opens its doors to a wide audience, and I’m particularly happy with this exceptional collaboration that makes hearts beat for classical music and its performers.”
