Last Friday, on 29th November, Phuc Nguyen To Hoan, a first-year bachelor’s student in Composition at Conservatorium Maastricht, received the prestigious Award for Innovation in Music 2024. Originally from Vietnam, Phuc began his studies this September under the guidance of Vykintas Baltakas.
The Award for Innovation in Music is an annual event recognizing exceptional creativity and innovation in music. Each year focuses on a different theme, with this year’s being Mortality. The prize aims to encourage students to think outside the box and develop groundbreaking musical ideas.
This year’s jury included: René Rousseau (founder of the Award for Innovation in Music), Stijn Huijts (Director of the Bonnefantenmuseum), Brigitte van Eck (Director of Theater aan het Vrijthof), Peter Peters (Professor of Innovation in Music), and Juliette Romboti (AIM alumna and 2022 winner).
Phuc’s performance, Suicide Crisis Line, captivated the jury with its masterful integration of multiple disciplines, including choreography, soundscape, poetry, and lighting. The performance was both cohesive and emotionally charged, with strong storytelling, well-developed narrative, and perfect pacing. It was a harmonious total package, with the delivery of the text being particularly poignant and impactful.
Other finalists this year included Elisabeth Ternisien with her performance Consolation Space, Marloes De Nul with Treadmill of Mortality, and Nader Adabnejad with Thanatos.
The jury praised all the finalists for their impressive presentations, creativity, and multidisciplinary approaches. The performances were moving and demonstrated strong sensitivity to the theme. The diversity of ideas showcased high levels of talent, with some participants excelling in translating their initial proposals into fully developed works. Overall, the evening was highly regarded for its emotional impact, respectful engagement with the theme, and exceptional execution.
Want to know more about Phuc and his project? Then read this interview.
