Be carried away by the unique sounds of the Almere-based city ensemble Black Pencil in Sunflower, a program where old and new music bring the symbolism of nature to life. The relationship between music and nature is a theme that fascinates Black Pencil—just as it has inspired many composers throughout the centuries. Landscapes, the sea, or the songs of birds have given rise to some of the most beautiful works in music history. Sunflower is a reflection on that intimate connection between humanity and the natural world—its inner structures, the fragility of its ecology, and our interdependence. Sunflower takes you on a musical journey through all these dimensions. Be inspired, feel the symbolism, spark your personal imagination, and realize how important it is to feel connected to your environment. Enjoy works specially composed for the unique instrumentation and line-up of this ensemble.

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Plant a Sunflower for a Sunflower Symphony
After the Sunflower concert, visitors will take a piece of nature home with them. In the spring and summer of 2026, Black Pencil will distribute sunflower seeds for audiences to plant at home. Once your sunflower blooms, we invite you to send in a photo or drawing—and if you feel inspired—a short poem or melody you’ve created for your flower. Black Pencil will select several submissions and transform them into unique mini-compositions.