About us
As per 1 January 2014, the (Netherlands) Willem Mengelberg Society has taken over all activities that were formerly carried out by the Willem Mengelberg Association. With this website we aim to reach the numerous admirers of Mengelberg’s music, worldwide. To that purpose, the most vital information provided (e.g. ‘His music’) is made available to you in English.
Activities
The activities of the Netherlands foundation ‘Willem Mengelberg Society’, which is the successor of the former ‘Willem Mengelberg Vereniging’ (Association), are focused on the artistic life of Willem Mengelberg who was the chief conductor of the Amsterdam Concertgebouw Orchestra during a period of almost 50 years. We are fully aware of the controversial aspects in Mengelberg’s behaviour during the German occupation of The Netherlands, but want to emphasize his historical significance for the performing arts and his substantial musical legacy. To the benefit of all lovers of classical music, worldwide.
The Willem Mengelberg Society
- is the founder and manager of this unique website. Don’t hesitate and tune in on Radio Mengelberg or go to His music and enjoy the many historical recordings that Willem Mengelberg left behind.
- issues the newsletter ‘WM’ (in Dutch) which also features Mengelberg’s contemporaries and the rich past of the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra.
- organizes special meetings for its donors (Friends) and sympathizers at least twice a year.
Honorary Chairman
- Riccardo Chailly
Governing Board
- Frits Zwart (chairman)
- Paul Osseweijer (secretary)
- Gijs Onstein (treasurer)
- Annette den Heijer
- Lodewijk Collette