The line-up showcases just how diverse the Utrecht music scene is: from grand classical works to pop classics, from choral music to big band and everything in between! The festival will be presented by Niels Vreeswijk.
Programme
USKO
The Utrecht Student Choir and Orchestra (USKO) presents a grand and immersive programme during UUnited, where choir and orchestra come together as one powerful whole.
With around 150 enthusiastic musicians, they create a rich, expansive sound driven by pure energy and a deep love for classical music. The programme features romantic music full of nature, night and sunrise; magical and narrative works that seem to say more than just existence itself. It’s also highly accessible: for those hearing classical music for the first time, this performance at UUnited is a welcoming and approachable introduction.
The conductor is a true USKO “nepo baby”, raised in music and now also active as a conductor with Medusa, a young talent definitely worth keeping an eye on!
Cantorij
The Cantorij, under the baton of conductor Fokko Oldenhuis, explores the boundaries of choral music. Their programme moves between the old and the modern, between harmony and tension.
At the festival, they will present a preview of their project Door weer en wind, inspired by water, travel and the relationship between humanity and nature. Think of music about shipwrecks, ancient texts and modern compositions that reinforce and challenge one another.
De Cantorij is more than just singing: their performances have a strong artistic dimension, bringing together music and movement.
Medusa & USConcert
The student women’s choir Medusa and the symphony orchestra USConcert come together to present an enchanting blend of modern classical and folk. This is their first time sharing the stage, making this performance all the more special!
Their performance is inspired by the theme Stories Without Borders. Their performance revolves around stories and connection: from ancient legends to mysterious sounds from different cultures. They sing in multiple languages: from French and Scottish to Swahili and even made-up languages, taking the audience on a journey into a world without borders.
To round off the performance, they invite the audience to sing along to the Scottish song Wild Mountain Thyme, a moment of connection that perfectly captures their musical vision.
This is classical music in a new, accessible form, right in the heart of a festival atmosphere!
Huisorkest
Under the baton of conductor Anja Oosterbeek, Het Huisorkest demonstrates just how versatile an orchestra can be. Whilst they usually switch between classical, film music, jazz and pop, their performance at UUnited is entirely dedicated to festive sing-alongs.
Expect an energetic set full of familiar tunes: from ABBA to Sweet Dreams. This is the moment when the audience naturally starts singing along! Accessible, cheerful and, above all, incredibly convivial: Het Huisorkest creates an atmosphere where everyone feels at home.
You won’t want to miss this. Music you know, played with an enthusiasm you can feel right at the back of the field.
USBB & Dekoor
When USBB & Dekoor take to the stage together, something special happens. Dekoor’s characteristic close harmony and the warm, energetic big band sounds of the Utrecht Student Big Band blend into an explosive mix of jazz, soul, pop and world music.
With a large group of singers and instrumentalists, they create a dynamic rarely seen on a single stage. Powerful solos, surprising arrangements and a catchy sound ensure that standing still is simply not an option.
They have previously proven their ability to get the audience fully moving, and this festival promises to be a spectacular event too. With a large group of instrumentalists and singers, a unique energy is created that you rarely see on a single stage.
Get your feet off the floor!
Presenter Niels Vreeswijk
“I’m absolutely thrilled to be presenting UUnited!
For me, this festival feels like a place where everything comes together: not just the music, but also my own journey through student life in Utrecht.
I spent years at Parnassos and was part of TSGP (Parnassos Theatre Sports Group), where creativity and fun were always central. At the same time, I still spend a lot of time at Olympos, where this festival is now taking place: as a former board member and still as a keen hockey player with the USHC. And as a student member of the Executive Board, I’ve got to know the university from a completely different angle.
It is precisely this combination that makes UUnited so special. It brings culture, sport and the student community together in one place. From grand classical pieces to energetic sing-alongs, from intimate choral music to swinging big band – and all of this at the beautiful, sporty Olympos – this festival shows just how versatile and vibrant Utrecht is.
I’m really looking forward to presenting this festival. Hope to see you there!“
— Niels Vreeswijk
UU-moment
Sports, culture and student life at Utrecht University also take centre stage during the event. Margot van der Starre will briefly address the audience. To celebrate the university’s 390th anniversary in an extra festive way, there will also be a special performance by Everest Cheerleading!
Everest Cheerleading
Everest Cheerleading Academy was founded in 2022 by sisters Ariel and Arister Yew. What started as a small cheerleading group in Utrecht quickly grew into a close-knit community centred around sports, energy and teamwork. With their years of experience, they aim to introduce as many people as possible to cheerleading through training sessions, workshops, performances and competitions. The name Everest symbolises reaching new heights together, both in cheerleading and in life.
Sing-a-long
During the UUnited Singalong, we will sing along together to well-known classics and crowd favourites, accompanied by Medusa and het Huisorkest! The song lyrics will be published online soon, so you can already start singing.
What about food & drinks?
On site, you’ll find an indoor and outdoor bar, two food trucks, and the Olympos Sportcafé.
Fun detail: both food trucks come from Utrecht city and the surrounding region!
Fries, toasted sandwiches and snacks at the Olympos Sportcafé.
Surinaamse broodjes from Dani’s Corner
Delicious Surinamese sandwiches, prepared according to their mother Millie’s traditional recipe. Think of flavourful roti with spicy chicken, or a rich chicken curry sandwich.
Pizza, iced coffee and desserts from Peppino’s
What started as a hobby grew into a passion for the perfect dough: Pepe’s secret recipe and pride. And let’s be honest… you can taste it. Only pure ingredients from Italian soil, carefully selected. Everything is about flavour, quality, and a generous dose of passion. Not fast food, but good food, fast. Straight from the oven, straight from the heart.
