The Otilka Quartet was formed in 2020 by violinists Iris van Nuland and Lucien Renette, violist Francisca Galante and cellist Stefano Bruno at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam. The jury was full of praise for the ensemble's dynamic playing. “We are captivated by the enthusiasm, ambition, and high quality of the Otilka Quartet's playing. Their music sounds like a fascinating ‘conversation’ between four original and musical friends who listen to and respond to each other. The Otilka Quartet has completely convinced HKF of their potential to grow into a string quartet of great allure.”
The Fontana Quartet was founded in 2021 by violinists Mara Mostert and Caspar Bellamy, violist Elin Haver, and cellist Isaac Lottman. All four musicians studied at the Sweelinck Academy and are currently continuing their studies at the CvA. “A young, up-and-coming quartet with great potential,” said the jury. "The four like-minded musicians impressed with their energetic and passionate ensemble playing and approach to studying. […] The HKF scholarship offers the musicians an extra incentive to expand their repertoire and further refine and deepen their playing.”
Conductor Drummado Wijnhamer obtained his bachelor's degree in Orchestral Conducting at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam. He is currently continuing his studies at the Franz Liszt Hochschule für Musik Weimar. The jury: “The young conductor Drummado Wijnhamer stands out for his smooth and natural conducting style. HKF is convinced that Drummado has the potential to become a conductor of significance.”
The Kersjes Fonds is one of the larger Dutch private incentive funds for music. It was founded in 1994 by conductor Anton Kersjes and his wife Margreet van de Groenekan and spends around €350,000 annually on grants and prizes for young talent and on supporting special projects and original initiatives.
