The Ideal Violin

What if you get to know someone's favorite song? What does that say about them? In this new performance by ‘De Ideale Viool’, violinist Emile Verstraeten and pianist Andy Willems go in search of the musical soul of Flanders. They are inspired by favorite songs of well-known and lesser-known Flemings: from classical pearls to surprising pop songs and jazzy evergreens. Each piece is reinvented in a unique arrangement for violin, piano and vocals. A haunting, original performance that touches, amazes and connects. The result is more than just music. Virtuosity and stories, recognition and surprise flow together into a warm musical portrait of us all. A haunting, original performance that touches, amazes and connects. Because music is the language of the soul. Emile Verstraeten has long been no stranger in the music world: classically trained but influenced by the gypsy swing jazz he picked up from home. He has been playing for years in the backing band ‘De Ideale Mannen’ of Bart Peeters, but has also shared the stage with artists such as Philip Catherine, Sioen, Flip Kowlier, Kommil Foo, Bjork,… You have undoubtedly also seen him on TV as a violinist, guitarist & backing in the backing band of ‘Liefde voor muziek’ (VTM) and ‘Ik vraag het aan’ (VRT). Pianist Andy Willems embraces a boundless love for music, which means he does not let himself be limited to one specific genre. After his classical conservatory training under the direction of Alan Weiss, he obtained a second degree as a jazz pianist at the Lemmensinstituut in Leuven. Andy feels just as at home in classical ensembles as on pop stages and jazz festivals. Cast: Emile Verstraeten (violin & vocals) and Andy Willems (piano)