World Premiere by Willem Jeths with the Residentie Orkest in collaboration with the Royal Conservatoire
1 May 2026
During The Rite of Spring, the Royal Conservatoire and the Residentie Orkest not only bring to life one of the most influential orchestral works of the twentieth century, but also a special world premiere: the Piano Concerto No. 3 – Scorching Passions by composer Willem Jeths.
With this new work, Jeths adds a new chapter to his versatile oeuvre, in which layered soundscapes, sharp contrasts, and a strong sense of drama converge. He composed the piano concerto for pianist Ellen Corver, professor of piano at the Royal Conservatoire, with whom he has shared an artistic bond for nearly forty years.
Regarding the work, Jeths states:
“In each of the three movements, a different facet of human passion takes center stage.”
From relentless intensity to blinding beauty and, ultimately, a love that ends in tragedy: Scorching Passions moves between extremes of emotion and expression.
The performance underscores the close connection between the Royal Conservatoire, contemporary makers, and professional practice. Students collaborate with leading musicians, gaining direct access to new music and the creative process behind it. It is precisely this intersection of education, research, creation, and performance that forms a vital part of the artistic practice within the conservatoire.
By making room for both established masterpieces and new Dutch repertoire, this collaboration demonstrates how tradition and innovation continue to strengthen one another, both on stage and within the curriculum.
Listen to the podcast: Those who wish to hear more about Ellen Corver and her connection to the Royal Conservatoire can also listen to the most recent episode of the Dutch podcast series ‘Stemmen uit het Koninklijk Conservatorium’.