Saraswati Collective

The Saraswati Collective explores new connections between European classical music and Indonesian sound worlds under the artistic direction of the Balinese-Dutch brothers Jan and Kris van der Plas. For the Grachtenfestival the ensemble presents Aqua a program specially created for the Waternet venue.

In this concert the ensemble demonstrates how Western and Indonesian musical traditions can merge naturally and seamlessly. Led by cellist Jan van der Plas the program weaves together the music of Debussy with Indonesian influences. He is joined by harpist Josefien de Waele and cellist Rozalia Sobecka who has created new arrangements for this project based on works by Trisutji Kamal and Mochtar Embut.

The Saraswati Collective is a newly founded ensemble of musicians inspired by the musical traditions of Indonesia. In addition to performing existing repertoire they expand it through new compositions and arrangements rooted in or inspired by Indonesian culture including adaptations of Balinese gamelan music and traditional songs.

Musicians
Josefien de Waele harp
Jan van der Plas cello
Rozalia Sobecka cello