In the Netherlands, we celebrate Sinterklaas on December 5th. It is a day when family and friends come together to exchange gifts and write poems for each other. 

The DEC 5 concerts arose in response to the heated discussions surrounding the Sinterklaas tradition. Since 2015, Japanese-Dutch pianist Tomoko Mukaiyama has organized an annual gathering to create connections, regardless of age or belief, rather than put people against each other. 

Through her musical performances and the contributions of other artists, she focuses on what brings us together, not what separates us. In this way, she gives new meaning to this evening and invites everyone to participate in an alternative tradition. 

In December, Tomoko will perform her interpretation of ‘Piano Counterpoint’ (1973, arr. 2011) at Meervaart. This work by Steve Reich is an arrangement of ‘Six Pianos’, in which one pianist plays live along with a recording. Through repetition and subtle shifts, a hypnotic interplay of sound and rhythm emerges, characteristic of Reich's minimalist style. 

Additionally, Tomoko will perform her own composition ‘East Shadow’ (2013), inspired by the Irish writer Samuel Beckett. In his play ‘But the Clouds’ (1976), Beckett refers to an “east shadow” and a “west shadow,” an image that is as simple as it is layered, much like life itself. 

Experience an evening filled with music, reflection, and tradition.