An 'Unforgettable Class' for refugee children in Muziekgebouw Eindhoven

Leaving the country you grew up in is not a natural thing. If there is an immensely unsafe or unjust situation in the home country, it is natural for people to move away from it hoping for a better life.

The Dutch have the privilege of having grown up in a safe country and there is no humane reason why asylum seekers and refugees should not have such an opportunity. Fortunately, 15,000 residence permits are granted annually in the Netherlands to people, giving them a chance to build a safe life.

Refugees have been accommodated at AZC Budel in the Eindhoven region since 2014. This important reception location is the largest reception centre in the Netherlands after Ter Apel. This AZC also accommodates many children; these children attend school in Maarheeze, at primary school de Opstap.

It goes without saying that these children have been through a lot. Culture can help them catch their breath and make new and beautiful memories. And maybe you'll discover that you really like a certain instrument!

This is why Muziekgebouw Eindhoven and ASML ar collaborating to offer the children of this primary school an "Unforgettable Class".

On 8 May, we will pick up all the children from school and take them to Muziekgebouw Eindhoven, where The musicians of Just Press Play will provide a music workshop in the Main Hall. Just Press Play is an exciting performance in the form of a music playground, accompanied by live music by ensemble But What About. While playing, the children find out that each object has its own reaction in music.

After the children have had the whole morning to practise, the day ends with a real performance.