“Studying at the conservatory; for most, the moment of musical and technical development and also a time of personal and mental development. A period with room for creativity and self-expression and a time of many highs, but unfortunately also lows.”
By telling his own personal story in the form of a music theater performance, Wessel Kruisselbrink tries to break the taboo about mental health in the (classical) music world. Because of high performance pressure, great competition and constant self-reflection, unfortunately too many musicians suffer from mental problems. Expectations are often high, one must perform continuously and constantly, and everyone tries to get their own seat within the orchestra.
In short, there is no room for slacking off, while this is practically impossible. Everyone has lesser moments, needs space to relax, recover and develop themselves. No one is perfect. Uncertainties must be, or become, negotiable. Weaknesses exist and everyone needs a break from time to time. Time for rest and reflection. And silence. After all, without silence there is no music;
'Silence must be.'
