Transports Publics, The Coudenberg connection: Richard Dering in Brussels

In 1617 London, there is no future for a Catholic composer like Richard Dering. He seeks solace in the Lage Landen, where English musicians have enjoyed an excellent reputation for decades. Dering follows in the footsteps of colleague Peter Philips and ends up in Brussels via Antwerp, where he – at the foot of the Coudenberg and right opposite the cathedral – can work at a Benedictine convent. Years later, Dering returns to his native country as private organist to 'queen consort' Henrietta-Maria. Transports Publics follows his musical wanderings in exquisite madrigals, elegant instrumental dances, and intimate motets that even Oliver Cromwell could appreciate! A program about exile and return, Brussels as a cultural and political crossroads, and a composer who found a license for artistic adventure in the relativity of national borders.