Orlando Ceder—singer, arranger, musical entrepreneur, and educator based in Amsterdam-Zuidoost—has been named Artist in Residence at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam (CvA). During his residency, Orlando will focus on bridging cultural worlds through music. He explains, “Music is more than just a language; it connects us, gives us identity, and enriches the world with beauty and harmony.”
As Artist in Residence, Orlando will work to strengthen connections, both musically and educationally, between Amsterdam’s Zuidoost district and the CvA. His efforts will foster a lively exchange of musical ideas, young talent, and fresh perspectives. This initiative aligns with the CvA's vision of being not only the Conservatorium of Amsterdam but also the Conservatorium for Amsterdam: an inclusive, accessible institution with international allure, serving the entire city.
In addition, Orlando will embark on a research trajectory within the CvA's lectorate of Musical Learning Cultures, led by Carolien Hermans. His work will include recording and archiving the roots of Afro-Surinamese music, a tradition that tells stories of resilience, identity, and connection.
“Afro-Surinamese music is living music with a rich history,” says Carolien Hermans. “With Orlando, we gain a musical leader who will bring these vibrant traditions to the CvA through workshops, concerts, and educational projects.”
As a CvA alumnus, Orlando Ceder is uniquely suited for this role. Reflecting on his entrance exam, he recalls: “I brought my apinti—a traditional Surinamese percussion instrument—to the audition. Of course, I wanted to be accepted, but even more, I wanted to show the committee what I could bring to the CvA.”
Ceder’s musical storytelling is deeply rooted in Amsterdam Zuidoost, yet it spans three continents. Blending tradition with contemporary elements, he uses text and instrumentation to make this music relevant for today. As a musical director, he pioneers artistic and educational projects in Zuidoost and has already contributed significantly to the CvA. He has organized working visits to the Zuidoost district and provided valuable advice on strengthening ties between the CvA and the community. At "The Pickup," the inspiration days for CvA teachers at the start of the academic year, he curated a session on musical entrepreneurship in Zuidoost.
More about Orlando Ceder
Orlando Ceder (Amsterdam, 1986) is a graduate of the CvA's accelerated Music Teaching Course. He is the founder and artistic leader of Black Harmony, a group specializing in close harmony and Afro-Surinamese percussion. Their mission is to connect people through music, offering educational programs that introduce young people to Afro-Surinamese musical traditions and help them discover and develop their talents.
Ceder was recently awarded the ECHO Award in the 'HBO' category, which recognizes students from non-Western backgrounds who excel in entrepreneurship, organizational talent, community engagement, and addressing challenges related to exclusion. This award will allow him to attend a fully funded summer school at UCLA in the United States in 2025.
About the Artist in Residency at the Amsterdamse Hogeschool voor de Kunsten
The Artist in Residence (AIR) program at the Amsterdamse Hogeschool voor de Kunsten (Amsterdam School of the Arts) inspires students and teachers by engaging them with contemporary developments and issues in the arts.
Here you can find more information about the AIR program at the Amsterdamse Hogeschool voor de Kunsten.