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Piet KeeDutch organist, composer and music teacher
Date of Birth: 30.08.1927
Country:  Netherlands |
Content:
- Kees van Houten: A Musical Legacy
- Early Life and Education
- Organist Accomplishments
- Teaching and Compositions
- Recordings and Recognition
Kees van Houten: A Musical Legacy
Kees van Houten, a renowned Dutch organist, composer, and pedagogue, made significant contributions to the world of music.
Early Life and Education
Born to organist Cor Kee, van Houten inherited a deep passion for music. He studied under his father's guidance before pursuing his studies at the Amsterdam Conservatory, graduating in 1952 as a pupil of Anton van der Horst.
Organist Accomplishments
Van Houten's prodigious talent was evident in his numerous triumphs at the prestigious Haarlem International Organ Improvisation Competition, which he won three consecutive times from 1953 to 1955. He went on to serve as the titular organist of the Sint-Laurenskerk in Alkmaar from 1952 to 1987. Concurrently, he held the position of municipal organist at the Grote Kerk in Haarlem from 1956 to 1989, showcasing his exceptional organ-playing abilities.
Teaching and Compositions
Alongside his performance career, van Houten shared his knowledge and skills as a teacher. He began teaching at the Amsterdam Muzieklyceum in 1954, which merged with the Amsterdam Conservatory in 1979 to form the Sweelinck Conservatory. In 1970, he became an instructor at the Haarlem Summer Academy for Organists, where he influenced countless aspiring organists.
Van Houten's compositions were as diverse as his repertoire. He penned numerous works for organ, including the celebrated "Frans Hals Suite" (1990), as well as compositions for carillon and other instruments.
Recordings and Recognition
Van Houten's artistry extended to the recording studio. He collaborated with the Chandos label to release eleven discs, featuring interpretations of renowned composers such as Sweelinck, Bach, and Mendelssohn, among others.
In recognition of his exceptional contributions, van Houten was awarded the Harriet Cohen International Music Prize in London in 1960, a testament to his profound influence on the musical world.
