Het Groot Internationaal Staatsorkest van Genk is a unique ensemble that embodies the sound of a city. More than thirty musicians from Genk and its surroundings bring together an instrumentation as diverse as the history of the city itself. Sousaphone, euphonium, clarinet and saxophone resonate alongside hurdy-gurdy, friction drum, bouzouki, darbuka, trunfa and other less conventional instruments.
The orchestra unites musicians with roots in Turkish, Greek, Italian, Flemish and other musical traditions. Together they form a vibrant melting pot of sounds where brass band traditions, folk music, dance orchestras, jazz and contemporary influences meet. The result is a cosmopolitan sound that reflects Genk’s rich history of migration and cultural diversity.
The idea for the orchestra grew from the conviction that Genk is exceptionally fertile ground for musicians and musical traditions. Initiator Danny Bierset recognised a musical landscape in the city where generations of musicians, from brass bands to dance orchestras, have left their mark. By bringing these diverse instruments and musical backgrounds together, the orchestra gives voice to what can be called the musical DNA of Genk.
Under the direction of conductor Herwig Pans, the Great International State Orchestra of Genk has developed into a collective where local musicians, traditions and contemporary creators meet. The orchestra regularly performs in special collaborations with guest musicians and artists, with the city of Genk serving as both inspiration and sounding board.
Through its collaboration with B-Classic, the orchestra is also connected to professional musicians and new artistic contexts. Within these co-productions, percussionist Bert Peyffers brings together a group of professional musicians on behalf of B-Classic and contributes to the artistic development of the project. In this way, a dialogue emerges between the local orchestra and contemporary makers, where new musical encounters and unexpected cross-pollinations take centre stage.
Genk resounds at C-mine. More than thirty musicians bring Het Groot Internationaal Staatsorkest van Genk to life under the direction of conductor ...
