---
title: "Meet two rising stars: Jaroslaw & Merel"
description: "An intimate concert experience with rising stars and the beauty of German lieder."
date: "2026-04-28"
created: "2026-04-28"
---

[Hjem](https://esbjergfestival.com/)

                    [Program](https://esbjergfestival.com/program)

                [Meet two rising stars: Jaroslaw & Merel](https://esbjergfestival.com/program/meet-two-rising-stars-jaroslaw-merel)

# Meet two rising stars: Jaroslaw & Merel

An intimate concert experience with rising stars and the beauty of German lieder.

                        søndag
                        14. juni

                            Klokken
                            15.00 - 16.00

                        Ribegade 74

                        Esbjerg

                            Gratis

**Meet two rising stars: Jaroslaw & Merel**

Jaroslaw Kalas is a young and talented bass-baritone (born 2002), already making his mark on the classical music scene. He began his bachelor’s degree at the Royal Danish Academy of Music in 2022, studying with Michael Lindberg and the American soprano Janet Williams. Jaroslaw is dedicated to developing his craft and has gained inspiration from masterclasses with artists such as Audrey Hyland and Linda Watson. He is no stranger to the stage, having appeared in competitions like *Unge Sangere* and performed in the opera chorus for *The Magic Flute* at Den Ny Opera in summer 2024.

At the piano is Dutch-Danish pianist Merel Beelen (born 2002). She currently studies with the renowned professor Marianna Shirinyan, and her CV already includes prestigious awards from competitions such as Steinway and Berlingske’s Classical Competition. She has won both hearts and prizes across the Nordic countries and made her solo debut at Tivoli Concert Hall after receiving the Lyngby-Taarbæk Music Prize. Merel has also participated in masterclasses across Europe, from Austria to Portugal, refining her artistry with leading pianists.

Together, Jaroslaw Kalas and Merel Beelen invite you into a world of light, playful melodies and deeply moving texts.

The programme features a selection of German lieder, including highlights from Franz Schubert’s iconic song cycle *Winterreise*. The duo also presents beautiful works by composers such as Hugo Wolf and Carl Loewe, creating a concert experience rich in emotion and musical depth.

Organist Helene Hersbo: 30 34 00 44 hh@grundtvigskirken.dk

Kordegn Jens Peter Kristensen: 76 11 96 00 JPK@KM.dk