The ensemble Holland Baroque informed us that the Dutch Council for Culture and the Performing Arts Fund have not foreseen any funding for the ensemble in 2025-2028. The press release says: « Both gave a positive assessment, but no financial allocation for the coming years. First of all, we are very perplexed and disappointed. »
According to what the ensemble was told, the assessment committee of the Performing Arts Fund « believes that Holland Baroque’s craftsmanship is beyond question » and « is confident that the program choice, which includes both historical Western traditions and those of non-Western cultures, will lead to concerts with appealing perspectives. » The Council for Culture finds that Holland Baroque « has its own and unique sound » and « presents exciting programs ».
Holland Baroque comments « This news hits like a bomb and affects not only our own organization, staff and ensemble musicians, but also all our collaborative partners, including musicians and venues.
Holland Baroque was extremely happy with the recognition of the Council for Culture in 2020 with which it acquired a position in the Cultural Basic Infrastructure in the past period. Before that, the Performing Arts Fund has always supported us. That both parties now advise no financial allocation at the same time is incomprehensible to us. The consequence of the current advice is that the continued existence of Holland Baroque is fundamentally endangered. »
