Jong Metropole – Fiesta de Verano
On Sunday 2 August 2026, Zuiderparktheater in The Hague becomes the stage for a summer concert with a Latin American flavour. Young orchestra Jong Metropole performs under the direction of conductor Jacomo Bairos, delivering an evening of rhythmic energy and vibrant sound. This musical event falls under classical music – though it sounds anything but formal.
Jong Metropole has built a reputation as one of the most energetic young orchestras in the Netherlands, and Fiesta de Verano makes that crystal clear. The setlist combines complex Latin American rhythms with melodies rooted in centuries of cultural exchange. Two pieces stand out: Esperanca by American composer and arranger Vince Mendoza, and the iconic Wakafrica by Cameroonian saxophonist and singer Manu Dibango. These are tracks that simply won't let you sit still.
Jong Metropole conducted by Jacomo Bairos
Jacomo Bairos is the driving force behind this concert. Specialising in contemporary and popular music, he brings out the best in Jong Metropole, shaping the ensemble into a tight, powerful unit. The musicians deliver a collective sound that feels bigger than the sum of its parts – something you notice the moment the first rhythm kicks in.
The roots of Latin American music
Fiesta de Verano is more than a party. The music of Central and South America is the product of centuries of cultural exchange, where African rhythmic traditions merged with European harmonies and indigenous sounds. That rich heritage resonates throughout every piece Jong Metropole performs – music as living proof of how cultures shape and enrich one another.
Summer concert at Zuiderparktheater The Hague
Zuiderparktheater is an intimate venue in the south of The Hague, nestled within the park of the same name. The setting suits the mood of this concert perfectly: warm, welcoming and full of energy. Whether you're a regular orchestral concertgoer or attending for the first time, Fiesta de Verano is an evening worth remembering.
