Police monitor small protest over Israeli cantor at Amsterdam Concertgebouw

A small, police-monitored demonstration took place early Sunday afternoon outside the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam against the appearance of Israeli cantor Shai Abramson, with another protest planned later in the day as the venue hosts multiple Hanukkah concerts. The demonstrators oppose Abramson’s appearance because he also performs at ceremonial events for the Israeli military.

Fewer than 20 demonstrators gathered near the Concertgebouw shortly after midday, holding signs reading “no stage for genocide” and “the Concertgebouw is occupied.” There was a noticeable police presence at the scene.

Inside the Concertgebouw, several Hanukkah concerts are scheduled for Sunday. A public family concert took place in the afternoon without Abramson. Two closed, invitation-only performances featuring the Israeli cantor are scheduled for the evening.

A court ruling issued Friday allowed a maximum of 20 demonstrators to hold a silent protest outside the Concertgebouw between 12:45 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. Protesters appeared to comply with those conditions.

The same ruling permits up to 30 demonstrators to gather at the building between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. Organizers also intend to hold a boisterous demonstration at the nearby Museumplein during that period.