“Constitution Hall held one of its most gala musical events yesterday… The Hague Philharmonic made its Washington bow on its first American tour, and the celebrated pianist, Ann Schein, appeared as guest soloist. It was an afternoon of the most sensitive performances. It was not only the international fame of the orchestra and the guest artist that created more than the usual excitement in the audience. Princess Beatrix of the Netherlands appeared with Secretary of State and Mrs. Dean Rusk. The concert was presented under the patronage of Queen Juliana of the Netherlands. During Ann Schein’s performance, the words of Mme. Isabelle Vengerova rang in my ears: ‘Always play to the best musician in the audience. If you feel you must have “personality”, start today training your personality to grow in terms of the music.’ Ann Schein’s performance was all that those remarks hold. There is no indulgence, only the most exacting qualities of the best traditions of music.”

Chopin Concerto No. 2 in f minor with the Hague Residentie Orchestra in Constitution Hall, Willem van Otterloo, conductor