We received the sad news that former teacher at the Hilversum Conservatory, Frans van Dalen, has passed away.

Frans taught piano and worked as a répétiteur at the Hilversum Conservatory. He accompanied, among others, cabaret artist Fons Jansen in his classical programmes (Ongewoon Recital and Kleintje Kunst) and recorded a CD of Ravel’s piano music titled Ravel Pianoworks. He also gave numerous concerts and informative music evenings with his Duo Sans Souci and as a soloist.

Frans was well-read and enjoyed sharing his knowledge with audiences during the many programmes he presented. The music of Maurice Ravel was one of his greatest passions, and he visited nearly all the places where Ravel lived and composed. The other major impressionists were also among his favourites, both in music and in visual art.

He created programmes around the music of the Belle Époque, the music played on the Titanic, Alice in Wonderland, and the First World War. He also gave lectures with live music on Frédéric Chopin, Claude Debussy, and Maurice Ravel.

During his years at the Hilversum Conservatory, Frans inspired and taught many classical and jazz students.

Our thoughts are with his family, friends, colleagues, and former students.

On behalf of the Conservatorium van Amsterdam,

Okke Westdorp
Maartje Meijer
Joachim Junghanss