String orchestra SAMWD Zottegem o.l.v. Andy Dhondt, Nadar Summer Academy

Within the Stedelijke Academie voor Muziek, Woord en Dans (SAMWD) in Zottegem, a highly motivated group of musicians formed over the past few years, officially called the Egmont String Orchestra as of 2023. The string orchestra consists of 30 talented string players led by conductor Andy Dhondt.

Saxophonist, pianist and conductor Andy Dhondt focuses on a particularly wide repertoire and has a passion for new music and contemporary art. Important is his collaboration with husband, composer and pianist Jef Neve. Dhondt attaches great importance to passing on his musical microbe. He is a much sought-after conductor of choirs and orchestras. Since 2012 he has been director of the Municipal Academy for Music Word and Dance in Zottegem.

Every year since its first edition in 2011 Nadar and MATRIX [New Music Centre] organise a five-day summer course for adventurous performers and composers between 14 and 20 years old. With the members of Nadar as their passionate guides these young people are challenged to explore the exciting world of new music, playing and creating existing and new compositions.

Composer and cellist – the two activities are connected in Séverine Ballon’s musical research. Her work favours collaborations with other artists, as well as creations that connect her social commitment to her artistic work. In her work as a performer, she has privileged collaborations with composers, working in the intimacy of the fabric of sound.