HAPPENING 5 OCT 2025 | A chamber concert featuring musicians from the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra will take place at Trompenburg Gardens this October. The ensemble's rare instrumentation sets the performance apart from conventional classical formats.
Musique Botanique concert to feature rare string quintet formation
An intimate chamber music performance is scheduled for Sunday morning, 5 October, at Trompenburg Gardens & Arboretum. Beginning at 11:00, the concert will feature Het Unique Quintet, an ensemble composed of musicians from the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra.
The quintet includes violinists Frank de Groot and Mekanie Broers, violist Veronika Lénártová, cellist Mario Rio, and double bassist Robert Franenberg. Their performance will explore classical repertoire written for a less conventional string quintet formation that includes a double bass (contrabas).
A rare configuration in classical music
In classical music, string quintets are most often arranged in one of two ways: either with two violins, two violas, and a cello, or with two violins, one viola, and two cellos. Composers such as Mozart, Beethoven and Brahms composed extensively for these standard configurations.
However, the upcoming concert will feature a formation rarely seen on stage—one that replaces the second viola or cello with a double bass. This change in instrumentation offers a different tonal balance and depth, which is expected to create a distinctive listening experience.
Programme highlights
The ensemble will perform a complete string quintet by Swedish composer Elfrida Andrée (1841–1929), as well as selected movements from D’Automne by French composer Félicien David (1810–1876).
The concert begins at 11:00, with doors opening at 10:30. A brief intermission is planned, and the performance will conclude around 12:15.
Ticket information
Tickets for the concert are priced at €25. Reduced pricing is available for attendees who hold a Rotterdampas, Museumkaart, or a valid Jaarwandelkaart for Trompenburg Gardens. No physical tickets will be issued; entry is managed via a guest list.
More information and ticket details are available via the organiser’s website: Musique Botanique – Het Unique Quintet
Getting to the venue
Trompenburg Gardens & Arboretum is located in the Kralingen district of Rotterdam. The area is easily accessible by bike, public transport, or car. The entrance is only open to concert visitors during the event. Early arrival is advised due to limited parking availability.
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