The Charismatic Jussen Brothers

The charismatic Jussen brothers will showcase their piano duo under the baton of Maestro Jaap van Zweden with HK Phil on 3 July at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre: Happy Evening with The Jussen Brothers. Despite their young age (30 and 26), the Jussen brothers are considered as the Netherland’s preeminent ambassadors for classical music. “It is like driving a pair of BMWs”, said conductor Michael Schønwandt after directing them in concert.

Arthur and Lucas Jussen, by Marco Borggreve

Lucas and Arthur Jussen were born into a musically inclined family in the Netherlands. From a very young age, they were immersed in a world of music, largely influenced by their mother, a flute teacher, and their father, a timpanist in the Dutch Radio Philharmonic Orchestra in Hilversum and a percussionist in the Ensemble Da Capo. Both brothers began playing the piano at the age of six, quickly showcasing their prodigious talent. Their early exposure to music was filled with a sense of exploration that would lay the foundation for their future careers.

They studied under esteemed teachers, including renowned pianist Jan Wijn, and participated in numerous competitions. As children, they were invited to perform for the Dutch Queen Beatrix. Their unique synergy as a duo became evident as they performed together, developing a distinct sound that captivated audiences.

In 2006, at the ages of ten and thirteen, the Jussen brothers achieved a significant milestone when they made their debut at the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam with the Netherlands Radio Chamber Philharmonic under Dutch Maestro Jaap van Zweden. This performance marked the beginning of their professional journey, drawing attention from critics and music lovers alike. Their ability to blend classical repertoire with contemporary works set them apart, allowing them to appeal to a diverse audience.

Over the years, they have performed with prominent orchestras internationally, including the Boston Symphony Orchestra and The Philadelphia Orchestra, Concertgebouworkest, Budapest Festival Orchestra, NDR Elbphilharmonie Orchester, the Academy of St Martin in the Fields, as well as the Montréal, Sydney, Singapore and Shanghai Symphony Orchestras.

Recording exclusively with Deutsche Grammophon since 2010, their discography features a range of compositions, from classical masterpieces to innovative arrangements, showcasing their versatility and artistry (Beethoven, Schubert, Mozart, Poulenc, Saint-Saëns, Bach, Rachmaninoff, Stravinsky and Arensky).

Their commitment to music extends beyond performance. The Jussen brothers are passionate about education and often engage in outreach programs to inspire the next generation of musicians. They emphasise the importance of creativity and expression in music, encouraging young pianists to explore their individuality.

Arthur and Lucas Jussen, by Marco Borggreve

For their concert with HK Phil, the charismatic brothers will perform In Unison, a concerto for two pianos composed especially for them by their fellow countryman Joey Roukens. Featuring a sparkling encounter with HK Phil Principal Timpani James Boznos, the dynamic duo will reach new heights performing with Maestro Jaap van Zweden with a recital of selected works for piano four hands by Mozart, Schubert and Kulenty.

More details about the concert can be found here: Happy Evening with The Jussen Brothers

You can enjoy 30% discount by purchasing more than two standard tickets.