Merlijn Twaalfhoven

Merlijn Twaalfhoven is a Dutch composer working in conflict areas and unconventional locations as well as in concert halls. He recently composed a mini opera, Postcards from Aleppo, performed by members of the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra and Syrian refugees in the Concertgebouw of Amsterdam. He collaborates with The Kronos Quartet and the New York Philharmonic. The recipient of a UNESCO award, Twaalfhoven’s projects explore the richness of cultural diversity and human interaction, often engaging musicians of contrasting styles, local traditions, or children in large events on spectacular locations. He loves unconventional collaborations with artists, cooks, diplomats, or idealists and strives for a world without boundary between art and society.