First Concerts in Holland

I flew to Amsterdam on my 29th birthday and was welcomed at the airport by my friend Bart. Bart was responsible for introducing my music to his church in Holland, who were now having me come sing at their Easter services. The church was in Den Haag, hometown of the queen of Holland.

As I arrived at the church and was introduced to people, I was amazed to find they all already knew who I was and were familiar with my music. I was really taken with how genuine and down-to-earth everyone was.

I took a day trip to Amsterdam with Bart and tried the traditional raw herring and bought some tulip bulbs. The fishy taste of herring lingered with me all day and the tulip bulbs later got confiscated coming through customs in Minneapolis. I love the history of Europe and seeing art and architecture that are older than the United States itself. I can see why so many artists throughout history have been inspired there.

On Easter, I sang in a Cathedral in Gouda, home of Gouda cheese. I was able to try fresh Gouda cheese during an interview they did with me, in the town square. I also tried potats, which were basically big french fries with a glob of mayo (or peanut sauce) on top. The interview and my live performances were broadcasted on Dutch national television. What an amazing way to have my music introduced to Holland! On stage with a black grand piano, in an outrageously beautiful cathedral, singing with natural reverb, timeless song from ages past, in a suit, in Europe. Needless to say, I was in heaven.

I have had the desire to sing in Europe ever since I took my first backpacking trip there in 2002. And getting to see that dream come true was very overwhelming for me. I met so many incredible people in Holland, and got to hear so many amazing stories of how God is active and still changing people’s lives. I’m so humbled and grateful to have been given this opportunity and welcome any future invitations to Europe!!

Much love,

Caleb