A concert by Anton van Doornmalen and his band is just what the soul needs at the moment. Pure joy in music, the lightness of life, and all for a good cause. Under the title “Journey”, Anton has now played to an audience of around 300 in the PS.Speicher in a charity concert organized by KWS.
Jane Duinmaijer-Fidelis builds a bridge
All proceeds go to Sibusiso, a foundation that supports handicapped children in Tanzania. This time, Jane Duinmaijer-Fidelis from Tanzania was among those who came to Einbeck for the concert: “Let's build a bridge of hope,” she said. This was also in line with what Dr. Felix Büchting, KWS CEO, emphasized at the beginning of the concert, namely the solidarity with people who are not doing so well - not only here in Germany, but also in other parts of the world.
"Hakuna Matata"
The charity concert, a “multi-generational concert” as it were, was intended to set an example and make a contribution. Right at the beginning, a children's choir under the direction of cantor Ulrike Hastedt provided support. “Immer scheint die Sonne”, ‘Du bist meine Zuflucht’ and ‘Simba-Farm’ were inspired by Africa, and the choir performed the songs together with Anton van Doornmalen's band to the delight and enthusiasm of the audience. Just like the song “Jambo, Jambo, Bwana” as a welcome song, an African variation on the motto “Don't worry, be happy” - “Hakuna Matata”.
An upbeat journey through life
Anton then continued the journey in a car, among other things: “My car and me” was on the program. “Such a nice feeling to sing with the steering wheel in my hand,” said the Dutchman. Then things got intimate: “Still with me” is a declaration of love from Anton to his wife Riekie. The lyrics read: “Now she's here, still with me.” And further: “The first kiss, still full of shyness, sets everything in motion.” And finally: “How did we do it? Great love is strength.” This was followed by many upbeat, but also thoughtful songs. And the stage premiere for the RijkZwaan anthem “We are one”.
Off to new shores
The leitmotif has always been the journey. The journey through the world, to other countries, to other shores - but also to himself. The passionate singer-songwriter always combines his interpretations with a message. “It's not the having, but the giving that makes us truly happy,” said the grandfather of five to his popular song ‘Opa, kommst Du’. Or his somewhat Irish-sounding “Bad weather song”, to which he said: “Rain is nature and life, you can only be happy”.
Professional band with top musicians
The Dutch singer-songwriter was supported by his band: Joke de Jong (violin), Jorge Nieuwenhuis (guitar), Co Vergouwen (piano), Johan Boere (percussion), Laurens van Wessel (bass). After almost three hours of heartfelt and thought-provoking but also simply happy songs, lots of applause and several encores, Anton van Doornmalen bid farewell with a traditional “Good night, friends”.
The performance in the PS.Speicher was the singer-songwriter's fourth appearance in beautiful Einbeck after 2013, 2016 and 2019.