Antifoon (full version)

ANTIFOON was part of the concept “The Sound of Hasselt and Genk” and was commissioned by the Hasselt-Genk Union, Z33 and Musica in Neerpelt. It was performed as a living sound sculpture by 500 musicians on the gigantic Tuikabel Bridge over the Albert Canal, which connects the Flemish cities of Genk and Hasselt. The large-scale community project was complemented by soloists Elise Caluwaerts, soprano, and Werner Van Mechelen, bass-baritone. Large loudspeakers on the bridge ensured that the orchestras, harmonies, percussionists, soloists and choirs could perform the music in sync. Mobile carillons also participated on the water. Wim Henderickx later adapted this work to ANTIFOON (Festival Edition), commissioned by the Universities of Ghent and Liège, on the occasion of their 200th anniversary in 2017. In this work, there are three different energies that determine the density and fullness of the piece. Within this structure, the musicians can improvise within the different energies. The dynamics range from piano (soft) to mezzo forte (moderately strong) to forte (strong). The natural elements – played by the orchestras and wind bands – and the colours – sung by the choirs – form the basis of this composition.