Purchase Against Time, Furia, and Valse de mon frère together and receive a special bundled price here.
Rhytmic, fiery and intensely theatrical, Furia unfolds as a musical dialogue. From the outset, the orchestra establishes the unmistakable pulse of the tango, over which the accordeon weavs increasingly expressive and virtuosic lines. Questions and answers seem to pass between soloist and orchestra as the music alternates between moments of agitation and reflection. Although firmly rooted in the language of the tango, the work constantly balances lyricism and tension. As the exchange develops, the soloists breaks away in an improvised passage. The sustained passage that follows retain a sense of expectation, as if neither side is willing to surrender completely. Gradually soloist and orchestra move closer together to its climax. The last chord suggests reconciliation, albeit coloured by a lingering dissonance. Inspired by a disagreement over whether a room should be painted red, Furia reminds us that great music can sometimes emerge from the smallest moments of everyday life.
Belgian composer, accordionist and multi-instrumentalist Ivan Smeulders (1974) is recognised as one of Belgium’s most versatile musicians. Classically trained on the accordion at the Royal Conservatory of Antwerp, he has developed a distinctive musical voice that effortlessly bridges classical music, jazz, world music, folk traditions and contemporary styles. Throughout his career, his curiosity and openness to diverse musical influences have shaped a rich musical journey. As both performer and composer, Smeulders has collaborated with numerous leading artists and ensembles. He is widely known for his long-standing musical partnership with Belgian singer Bart Peeters. As arranger, producer and musical director, his work extend to theatre, film and television. His own projects showcase his passion for expressive melodies, rhythmic vitality and colourful instrumental textures. Ivan Smeulders’ compositions are characterised by their accessibility, emotional depth and inventive orchestration. Whether writing for chamber ensembles, concert bands or solo instruments, his music combines technical craftsmanship with expressive lyricism and colourful orchestration.
Els De Sadeleer (1992) is a Belgian composer, music educator, clarinetist, and percussionist. She began her musical journey at the August De Boeck Academy in Asse. Soon Els performed with the local wind band—first on clarinet and later as a percussionist. With her unique blend of personal expression and solid theoretical knowledge, Els creates music that speaks to a wide audience. Her passion for composition began at an early age, sparked by playful experimentation with music notation software. That early curiosity blossomed into a deep commitment to the craft, leading her to study at LUCA School of Arts, Campus Lemmens. There, she earned a Master’s in Music Pedagogy, a Bachelor’s in Composition, and a teaching degree, studying under composers Jeroen D’Hoe and Pieter Schuermans. As a seasoned arranger, Els has shown her aptitude for HaFaBra. Her experience in arranging nurtured her technical skills and led to a whole scala of original compositions. She composes for a wide range of ensembles, including wind bands, choirs, solo instruments, and chamber groups. Her works are known for their craftsmanship and joy of performance—music that is both rewarding to play and engaging to hear.
