Music

“Exhilarating 18th-century music provides a luxury tour of Europe” Apple Music Classical Radio

“An imaginatively conceived and beautifully executed project” Limelight Magazine (AU)

“Sparkling and brilliant … an impressive portrait of an exceptional cultural period … Nothing but praise for the musicians for this expressive, adventurous, refined and irrefutably radiant recording which succeeds in illuminating 18th-century music from a different point of view.” Luister (NL)

“Great, vibrant music by top composers of their time!” MDR (D)

“Jet Set! is a pleasing, varied programme, played finely by The New Dutch Academy … The two Abel symphonies – plus Murphy’s violism in the concerto – are particular highlights.” Gramophone (UK)

“Affection for this music and expertise are all over this release.” Early Music America (US)

“For those who want to experience cutting edge historical performance practice from a different perspective, this CD is highly recommended … And by the way: Simon Murphy is not only an inspired conductor, but also a great soloist!” Opus Klassiek (NL)

“subtle, energetic and immersive … a beautiful album that grows with every listen.” Den Haag Centraal (NL)

“Simon Murphy has a talent for invigorating the repertoire with energy and conviction … an opulent Baroque roadtrip through 18th-century Europe. … vibrant performances … Murphy highlights the technical intricacies of the Baroque and the pure joy of the music.” (5 stars) Limelight Magazine (AU)

“An unforgettable musical journey … thrilling … infectious energy … the outstanding playing of this perfectly attuned ensemble of soloists makes the invitation in the CD booklet to “sit back and enjoy” impossible to refuse. MUZE (NL)

“The other Zappa … brilliant performances … A fascinating view of the rich musical traditions of The Hague … wonderful orchestral sound of the NDA” Klassieke Zaken

“18th century rock ‘n roll … a total eyeopener” Haagsche Courant

“Different Zappa, Different Time, Different Place, Same Excitement” Pop Matters (US)

“swinging and persuasive!” Het Parool (NL)

“Murphy creates an earthy energy with funky rhythms and fine articulation. Beautifully recorded.” De Volkskrant (NL)

“When it comes to the subject of Crown Jewels, the Dutch can definitely hold their own with the British. The New Dutch Academy presents a musical exhibition of seven high-carat examples from the Classical epoch, including two totally stunning new masterworks. Under no circumstances should one miss this!” Deutschlandradio Kultur (D)

“A rich anthology CD of first recordings of works from the court of the Prince of Orange, William V, this album of repertoire-refresher, conductor Simon Murphy radiates joie de vivre.” (5 stars) Diapason (F)

“This is one of the finest SACD recordings I have heard. … gorgeous, finely balanced and well-placed performances … Anyone with an interest in off the beaten track late 18th-century music owes it to himself to obtain this CD.” American Record Guide (US)

“As one has grown to expect from the New Dutch Academy, one hears inspiring, energising and vibrant interpretations here. An impressive production presenting world premiere recordings of these works. Simon Murphy had already shown that there are still many undiscovered musical treasures to be found in the Netherlands. We look forward to hearing more!” Toccata – Alte Musik Aktuell (D)

“The “Dutch Haydn”: a wonderfully lively composer, served up with irresistible enthusiasm by Simon Murphy’s New Dutch Academy.” Le Soir – “Nos coups de coeur” (B)

“The Dutch Haydn – Like a refreshing summer breeze from Holland, this new production wafts in with works by Joseph Schmitt … The unusually effervescent New Dutch Academy presents a passionate testimonial for this, until now, underestimated master. … With many musical effects – such as touching pianissimi broken by brutal Fortissimo passages – the composer displays his individuality. It is obviously a pleasure for the New Dutch Academy to present this broad range of musical expressions, which it does marvellously. … Gripping, technically brilliant, and last but not least with really nice attention given to the bass-end of the orchestra, the New Dutch Academy leads us through this previously unknown musical cosmos. Highly recommended! Concerto (D)