EYES OF WONDER
Composer: Kevin Houben
Soloist: Robbert Vos
Orchestra: Marine Band of the Royal Netherlands Navy

Eyes of Wonder was commissioned by Dutch euphonium soloist Robbert Vos as a homage to his daughter Celeste Elianne, with her most beautiful blue eyes.

With the birth of every child, a miracle takes place. The title of this work not only alludes to this wonderful event, but above all refers to the sense of wonder with which young children approach the world: open-minded, curious, and embracing everything that comes their way.
Kevin Houben based this composition on 'Waltzing Matilda', an Australian folk song that Celeste hears every night at bedtime from a music box her parents bought for her during their travels around the world.

‘Eyes of Wonder’ is a very lyrical piece that, due to some surprising harmonic passages and the use of unconventional chords, may arouse a sense of wonder in many audiences.

The solo euphonium line allows the instrument to shine in its full glory, showcasing its full potential in a register that brings the lyrical passages alive. This solo is accessible for advanced amateur musicians as well as professionals.

The premiere of ‘Eyes of Wonder’ took place on May 11, 2023 in Oss (NL) with Robbert Vos as soloist, accompanied by the Marine Band of the Royal Netherlands Navy and conducted by the composer Kevin Houben himself.

"That, then, is loveliness, we said,
Children in wonder watching the stars,
Is the aim and the end."
(Dylan Thomas, 1914-1953)