About the book

Van hoge naar nieuwe kunst (From High to New Art)

 

Hans Abbing (2009) Van hoge naar nieuwe kunst, Historische Uitgeverij, Groningen, isbn 978-90-6554-032-4.

An important conclusion of the book (a polemic essay of 100 pages) is that society has become more informal and that therefore the interest of above all younger people in high art events (especially classical concerts) dwindles, not so much  because of content, but rather because of the unpleasant formal atmosphere.

In the spring of 2009 the book caused a row in the Netherlands. Established critcs reacted angry and very emotional in the Dutch daily papers. Young classical musicians were interested and often enthusiastic about the content of the book. They organized several debates about the book and concerts in a far more informal setting.

The book builds on my 2005 inaugural lecture.

Read the synopsis (in English) of the book.

Information (in English) for interested publishers.

An interesting site and discussion forum of the conductor Hans Leenders about the future of classical music.