Verdi: La Traviata (Nationale Reisopera, January – February 2012)

From the first note of the overture it was right on the mark. The compassion (…) was tangible and any coughing was exorcised under the command of Robbert van Steijn. (…)

(…) Robbert van Steijn conducted the North Netherlands Symphony Orchestra in an interesting interpretation of Verdi’s score. The tempi he chose created full energy (…)

Verdi: Nabucco (Concertgebouw Amsterdam, November 28  2010)

A warm Nabucco in the Concertgebouw (…) Robbert van Steijn employed a vigorous tempo, without resorting to coarseness, something that often occurs in early Verdi opera. The always reliable RBO Sinfonia played with a new vitality under Robbert van Steijn, who also provided strong support and a mainstay for both chorus and soloists.

Montsalvatge: El Gato con Botas (Opera Trionfo, 2009)

(…) The orchestral score, cleverly arranged by Montsalvatges student Albert Guinovart, was played by a 12 piece instrumental ensemble. The conducting of Robbert van Steijn beautifully conveyed not only the sensuality of the strings but also the vivid colours of the brass writing. (…)

(…) Montsalvatge’s unfussy operatic music sounded indisputably Spanish in its energy and warmth. The vocal lines in ‘El Gato” sounded almost folk-like or exotic at times, accompanied by a sonorous but vital ensemble of a dozen instruments, led by the dynamic conducting of Robbert van Steijn. (…)

(…) This arrangement by Albert Guinovart has lost none of its colour, and Robbert van Steijn creates polished textures with this ad hoc ensemble. The notes now have the bite of Stravinsky, then the bewitching effervescence of Poulenc or the sweetness of Puccini. (…)

Verdi: Macbeth (Concertgebouw Amsterdam, October 12   2008)

(…) The Amsterdam Opera Chorus was accompanied by the grandiose playing of the RBO Sinfonia, led by the young virtuoso conductor Robbert van Steijn. I hope to hear a lot more of this maestro, especially in opera where his talent most definitely lies. (…)

English translation by Nicola Knox