“A mind is like a parachute. It doesn’t work if it is not open” was the motto of Frank Zappa. With that in mind, composer and guitarist Corrie van Binsbergen started working with 19 students of the University of the Arts Utrecht (HKU). A large lineup was formed, named HKU Large Ensemble, with a double rhythm section, a mallets player, spoken word and 10 wind instruments. From first-year students to all in the Jazz & Pop section and master students in classical music, everyone was able to qualify. Van Binsbergen herself started playing guitar at age 7 and found fame with her band Corrie en de (Grote) Brokken. She developed a quirky and surprising combination of music and literature and worked with many well-known authors. In 1999, she received the Boy Edgar Prize. Van Binsbergen is currently working on assignments for the Rotterdams Philharmonisch Orkest and Metropole Orkest, among others.
