ROTTERDAM, 19 December 2023 – In a display of solidarity and support, the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra collaborates with Ukrainian musicians for a special concert, with proceeds aiding War Child.

Rotterdam philharmonic orchestra supports Ukraine with special concert

In response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra is set to host a concert on Saturday, 13 January. This event is distinctive as it features the participation of thirteen Ukrainian musicians who have sought refuge. Their collaboration with the orchestra symbolises not only a cultural exchange but also a stand against the backdrop of the war.

The concert, taking place at the Doelen in Rotterdam, will see the young Ukrainian prodigy Olha Dondyk as the conductor. Ukrainian pianists Antonii Baryshevskyi and Anna Fedorova are also slated to perform, showcasing pieces by Silvestrov and Chopin.

Music as a beacon of hope and solidarity

Anna Fedorova, one of the participating artists, emphasised the importance of music, stating, "Music lets you feel what you want to fight for, it provides perspective, and that's very powerful." This sentiment reflects the orchestra's belief in music as a medium that transcends conflict, offering hope and humanity.

Fundraising for War Child

The proceeds and donations from this concert are dedicated entirely to War Child. The organisation focuses on providing psychosocial support, protection, and education to children affected by war. Through music, sports, and games, War Child helps these children process their traumatic experiences, restoring their self-confidence and trust in others.

Ernst Suur, Director of War Child Netherlands, expressed gratitude towards the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra for organising this event, underscoring the universal language and creative stimulation music provides, especially for children in conflict zones.

Tickets and donations

Tickets for the concert are available starting at €25, with the option to contribute up to an additional €50 per ticket. All proceeds from ticket sales and donations will benefit War Child. Further details about the concert can be found on the event's webpage.

The concert is partially funded by the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science (Ministerie van Onderwijs, Cultuur en Wetenschap).

Directions to the Doelen

The concert will take place at the Doelen, a prominent concert hall located in the heart of Rotterdam. The venue is easily accessible by public transportation, with Rotterdam Central Station within walking distance. The surrounding area is known for its vibrant cultural scene and a variety of dining options.

The vibrant Hoogkwartier district becomes a cultural and culinary paradise with the first Snowkwartier showcase festival.

Snowkwartier: a showcase of arts, culture, and cuisine

On 19 and 20 January, the Hoogkwartier district of Rotterdam will host the first edition of the Snowkwartier festival. This event aims to highlight the area's cultural and culinary richness, offering a variety of activities for all ages. The festival is designed to introduce a wider audience to the unique characteristics of this neighborhood.

Lobke Ruijs, the initiator of Snowkwartier, shared, “To acquaint a broader public with this special neighborhood in Rotterdam, the local businesses are not only opening their doors during Snowkwartier but also organizing a range of engaging activities and tours. Visitors can join an art tour through galleries and art dealers, or embark on a wine and dine tour across the area’s culinary highlights.”

Culinary delights and musical entertainment

The festival will begin on Friday, 19 January, with the “No Stars Dinner” in Achterkloosterpark, hosted by renowned local restaurants including Rotonde, Héroine, Old Scuola, and by Jarmusch. Priced at €22.50, this open-air dinner offers a walking dinner experience under the stars, accompanied by heaters for warmth. The evening will conclude with a silent disco. On Saturday, the Hermes House Band will perform their classic hits in the same location, complemented by glühwein and other warm refreshments.

Diverse activities for all tastes

Snowkwartier’s packed schedule includes tours for various interests. Those keen on Rotterdam’s history can join a guided tour by Paul Groenendijk. Art enthusiasts can explore works with Garage Rotterdam, the corporate collection of Het Industriegebouw, and Vendu auction house. For food lovers, a tasting card will provide access to the neighborhood's culinary spots. Creative activities like painting workshops at Gerstaecker Harolds will also be available for attendees of all ages.

Community involvement and development

In a show of community spirit, the Salvation Army (Leger des Heils) will open its doors to neighbors for the first time in years and collaborate in the festival’s setup and takedown. “We aimed to make everyone a part of the festival. Participation is a collective effort involving businesses, residents, the City of Rotterdam, and street musicians,” said Lobke Ruijs. A community flea market will also be organized, allowing residents to set up their own stalls at no cost. The City of Rotterdam plans to discuss with residents about renovating the Achterkloosterpark playground in 2024.

Directions to the event

Located in the heart of Rotterdam, the Hoogkwartier is easily accessible. For those attending the Snowkwartier festival at Achterkloosterpark, public transportation is recommended. The area is a short walk from Blaak Station, served by both trains and trams. The neighborhood is known for its vibrant art scene and diverse culinary offerings, making it a perfect backdrop for the festival.

Who's playing at the ABN AMRO World Tennis Tournament?

• To be announced...

Félix Auger Aliassime wins the 2022 ABN AMRO world tennis tournament in Rotterdam

Past results of the ABN AMRO World Tennis Tournament

• 2024 — Jannik Sinner def. Alex de Minaur (7-5, 6-4)
• 2023 — Daniil Medvedev def. Jannik Sinner (5-7, 6-2, 6-2)
• 2022 — Félix Auger-Aliassime def. Stefanos Tsitsipas (6-4 6-2)
• 2021 — Andrey Rublev def. Marton Fucsovics 7-6 (4), 6-4.
• 2020 — Gael Monfils def. Felix Auger Aliassime | 6-2, 6-4
• 2019 — Gael Monfils def. Stan Wawrinka | 6-3, 1-6, 6-2
• 2018 — Roger Federer def. Grigor Dimitrov | 6–2, 6–2
• 2017 — Jo-Wilfried Tsonga def. David Goffin | 4–6, 6–4, 6–1
• 2016 — Martin Kližan def. France Gaël Monfils | 6–7^(1–7), 6–3, 6–1
• 2015 — Stan Wawrinka def. Tomáš Berdych | 4–6, 6–3, 6–4
• 2014 — Tomáš Berdych def. Marin Čilić | 6–4, 6–2
• 2013 — Juan Martín del Potro def. Julien Benneteau | 7–6^(7–2), 6–3

Rotterdam is set to host the start of the prestigious 2024 Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, marking the event's first commencement outside France. Scheduled from 12 to 18 August, the race will feature three stages across the Netherlands, including The Hague and Dordrecht, promoting cycling and physical activity.

Key details of the event

The event kicks off on 11 August with a city program in Rotterdam, offering cycling tours and opportunities to experience the Tour route. The race begins on 12 August at Rotterdam's Museumpark, next to the Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen, covering 138 kilometers to The Hague through Voorne-Putten and Westland, finishing in Kijkduin.

Stages and routes

On 13 August, two stages are scheduled. The morning stage is a 73-kilometre ride from Dordrecht to Rotterdam, passing through Kinderdijk and Alblasserwaard. The afternoon features a 6-kilometre individual time trial in Rotterdam, starting at Erasmusbrug, passing iconic landmarks like the Willemsbrug, and concluding on the Boompjes. Following the Rotterdam stages, the tour proceeds to a stage from Valkenburg to Liège, ending at l’Alpe d’Huez on 18 August.

Local impact and anticipation

Rotterdam's Alderman for Sports, Faouzi Achbar, along with officials from The Hague and Dordrecht, have expressed pride and enthusiasm for hosting the event, highlighting its significance in promoting city engagement and cycling.

Directions to Museumpark

Museumpark, the starting point, is conveniently located near Rotterdam's heart, easily accessible by public transportation. Known for its cultural vibrancy, the area serves as a central hub for locals and visitors alike.