On Sunday 22 March, the fourth edition of Alzheimer Nederland’s Memories Top 50 concert took place in the largest concert hall in Amsterdam. Sixteen Dutch artists from cabaret, pop, and theatre performed songs from a Top 50 most memorable songs list. In the weeks before the concert people had voted for which song holds the most special memories. One of the highlights was the performance by Our Unforgettable Dementia Choir, a choir consisting of 18 people living with dementia.
Another first was the live performance by rapper Snelle with his song “Laat Het Licht Aan” (“leave the light on”). He was inspired by his stepsister who made a documentary about the consequences dementia has for young people and children who deal with the disease. The song is about the last night that a couple spends together before one of the spouses moves to a care home.
What you have forgotten will always remain
Patricia Kerckhoff, chair of the board of Alzheimer Nederland and initiator of the concert, drew attention during an emotional moment to all those affected by dementia: “What you have forgotten will always remain.” Afterwards, the entire hall transformed into a sea of lights to illuminate memories. Because it turns out that everyone knows someone with dementia, whether close to them or in their community.
Next edition of the Memories Top 50 Concert
Ticket sales for next year began immediately after the concert. This will be a special anniversary edition of the Memories Top 50 Concert on Sunday 21 March 2027.
Patricia Kerckhoff said “In 2027, it will already be the fifth edition of our concert. That calls for a celebration, and we have plenty of special surprises in store! For Alzheimer Nederland, this is much more than a concert; it’s a moment to create memories together and to enjoy—young and old alike—all the beautiful songs the Netherlands has to offer. Alzheimer Nederland knows how valuable memories are. How important it is to cherish them—after all, it’s not a given that memories will stay with you forever.”
Proceeds from ticket sales will go toward dementia research.
