Amsterdam Andalusian Orchestra awarded Cultuurfonds Prize

The Amsterdam Andalusian Orchestra (AAO) has been awarded this year’s Cultuurfonds Prize, the organization announced on Monday. The prestigious award, formerly known as the Prince Bernhard Cultuurfonds Prize, includes a 100,000 euro grant. The orchestra performed at the Ziggo Dome in Amsterdam this past Sunday as part of the city’s 750th anniversary celebration concert.

“The AAO uniquely connects cultural heritage with the present,” said Cultuurfonds Director Cathelijne Broers. “With their innovative, genre-spanning music productions that blend Arabic music with jazz and flamenco, the AAO reaches a wide and diverse audience, both in the Netherlands and internationally.”

The jury described the orchestra as “multidisciplinary,” praising the performers for “transcending traditional forms and pursuing numerous collaborations that further enrich their work.” Additionally, the jury highlighted the orchestra’s educational efforts, which connect new generations to the power of music.

The Cultuurfonds Prize will be presented on Wednesday, Nov. 27, at De Meervaart in Amsterdam.

Awarded since 2010, the prize money will fund the AAO’s Hadra Immersive project, a musical experience inspired by Hadra, an ancient North Moroccan spiritual ceremony. The Hadra Immersive will feature a specially designed lighting installation, making the performance accessible to all as part of a unique theatrical experience.