DelawareScene: Across The Atlantic: Dutch-American Dialogue @ New Castle Historical Society

Across The Atlantic: Dutch-American Dialogue

The New Castle Historical Society is hosting a special concert to commemorate New Castle’s 375th anniversary this year. The concert, "Across the Atlantic: Dutch-American Dialogue," was created in celebration of the 375th anniversary of New Castle, Delaware—a city whose history began with the establishment of the Dutch settlement of Fort Casimir in 1651. The concert features music from both Dutch and American composers performed on piano and violin.

Presented during a year that also marks 250 years of American independence, the program reflects upon the longstanding connections between the Netherlands and the United States, while considering how cultural identities travel, evolve, and become part of a broader American story.

The performers’ own cultural backgrounds are woven naturally into this musical dialogue. Dutch pianist Sharon Niessen brings a personal connection to works by Ton de Leeuw and Willem Pijper, while violinist ShanRong Tuo’s Chinese heritage is reflected in Tan Dun’s Hero Sonata. As a Chinese-born American composer, Tan Dun forms a natural bridge between her heritage and the program’s American dimension. Music by Amy Beach and Aaron Copland completes the journey with contrasting expressions of the American musical voice. Together, these works celebrate heritage, cultural exchange, and the connections that continue to develop across countries and generations.

Sharon Niessen and ShanRong Tuo are both award-winning musicians with international careers. They both have played in the US, Europe, Asia and at major concert halls such as Carnegie Hall, Staller Center for the Arts, and Concertgebouw Amsterdam.

“We are very excited to host this special concert in 2026. In addition to celebrating the 250th anniversary of American independence, New Castle is also celebrating our Dutch beginnings with this commemorative concert that has been 2 years in the making,” says Mike Connolly, executive director of the New Castle Historical Society.

A short reception with a chance to meet the musicians will be held immediately following the performance. The concert is presented with support from the Delaware Municipal Electric Corporation.

Tickets are $25 (plus $2 handling fee). Seating is limited so advanced ticketing is strongly recommended. The concert will be held at the New Castle Visitor Center at the Arsenal, 30 Market Street, New Castle, DE 19720.

Classical / Opera Music Northern Delaware