E-News December 2024: Season of Celebration, Connection, and Creativity!
Hello You,
With December just around the corner, we look back on a remarkable year shaped not only by change but also by the power of music, creativity and heartfelt moments and new friendships that drew us closer. From the birth of L’Okapi to boundary-pushing performances and various conversations about mental well-being, we’ve seen how music and art inspire resilience, spark joy, and create meaningful change — even in uncertain times.
As we gear up to welcome 2025, December offers a line-up of new events that celebrate the growing community and journey of L’Okapi so far and sets the tone for a vibrant year ahead. Get ready for the Jungle Unleashed 2024 showcase and experience the beginning of a new tradition with the very first L’Okapi Night at the Muziekgieterij’s Playground.
Join us in making this season a powerful reminder of how music and art can bring us together.
** All events are free — just don’t forget to reserve your ticket(s)!
- Abigail - Agnieszka - Alexander - Alexandra - Anne - Beau - Christina - Ernest - Esranur - Henny - Isabel - Jana - Julia - Levin - Lida - Lien - Marit - Maud - Maxime - Micha - Narim - Odile - Sascha - Sheida - Stijn - Valery - Valérie - Willow - Yala - Yorn - Younes
- Abigail - Agnieszka - Alexander - Alexandra - Anne - Beau - Christina - Ernest - Esranur - Henny - Isabel - Jana - Julia - Levin - Lida - Lien - Marit - Maud - Maxime - Micha - Narim - Odile - Sascha - Sheida - Stijn - Valery - Valérie - Willow - Yala - Yorn - Younes
"The process feels effortless, but the results are deeply resonating and meaningful. What I love most is how we connect in such an open and supportive space, weaving together our strengths to craft art that truly speaks to us all."
Unleashing Creativity
The first edition of Jungle Unleashed brought together more than 30 participants for a series of workshops that explored the power of music and art as tools for self-expression and collaboration. From crafting melodies and lyrics to experimenting with colours and textures, participants dove into their own stories, emotions, and inspirations.
Charlotte Haesen: ”These workshops weren’t just about developing artistic skills—they were also about building a supportive community where creativity and collaboration can thrive. The results have been nothing short of inspiring. As one of the participants beautifully said, it’s not just about making art or music—it’s about discovering parts of yourself you didn’t even know were there.”
Interested in a Jungle Unleashed workshop or
programme at your school or for a company event?
Contact us to discuss options!
Dive into the festivities
Everyone is welcome, and language is no barrier — music knows no boundaries. Neither do we! The events take place at Muziekgieterij’s Playground in Maastricht. Free entrance, but make sure to reserve your ticket(s) due to limited space.
December 7
20:00 - 22:30
Connection Event
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After a month of creative sparks, songwriting, good conversations and laughter, the first chapter and voices of the participants of Jungle Unleashed 2024 will be revealed! From vibrant visuals to moving performances and powerful stories, this promises to be more than a showcase — it’s a celebration of creativity, courage, and the beauty of exploring new artistic horizons together.
Whether you’ve followed the Jungle Unleashed journey or want to know more about the new community and creative jungle named L'Okapi, this is your chance to connect.
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Live painting by Deniece Clermonts
Live music
December 17
20:00 - 22:30
L’Okapi Night X-Mas
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Don’t miss this cozy holiday gathering and our first L’Okapi Night at Muziekgieterij! Join us for an unforgettable evening of holiday cheer, featuring the soulful sounds of Haesen & Breidenbach and celebrating charm of Stereo Naked. Immerse yourself in the festive spirit as our special guests share heartwarming, akward, and laugh-out-loud holiday stories we can all relate to.
Let raise a glass and let the music and magic of the season bring us closer together!
January 7
20:00 - 22:30
L’Okapi Night X Queer Art Club
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Time to kickstart 2025! For the second L’Okapi Night, we’re teaming up with Queer Art Club Maastricht — expect a celebration of music, queerness, and everything in between and beyond, amplifying the voices and stories that colour the spectrum of sound. Whether you want to dance, be inspired, or simply soak in the energy of a like-minded community. Get ready to shine — dress to slay!
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Live music by L’Okapi House Band
Spotlight on
“Music and visual art can express our thoughts and emotions in ways words cannot. Allowing for deeper connections —with ourselves, each other, and the world.”
L’Okapi Artist
Deniece Clermonts
For visual artist and social butterfly Deniece Clermonts, creating — whether through painting, fashion, or singing — is essential for processing the stimuli of a chaotic world. Known for her expressive ‘scribble’ process, interactive live painting sessions and various solo exhibitions, Deniece’s mixed media artwork explores the relationship between identity, self-expression, and mental well-being.
Her talent comes to life not only on canvas, but she also guides the Jungle Unleashed art workshops.
L’Okapi’s Playground: Muziekgieterij
As of December, L’Okapi Music and Muziekgieterij are joining forces to present L’Okapi Night, a monthly collaboration designed as an open mic concept and get-together playground. L’Okapi Night offers a welcoming space where people can share their stories, showcase their talents or enjoy good music and great company. Whether you’re a musician or performer looking to step into the spotlight, someone who loves to cheer others on, or simply curious to meet new people in Maastricht, L’Okapi Night invites you in.
This collaboration goes beyond entertainment— together with partners like Muziekgieterij, L’Okapi is creating a stage for connection, talent development, and the celebration of shared experiences.
So mark your calendars, bring your story, song, or just yourself!
Behind the scenes
A lot is happening, not only frontstage but also backstage! As L’Okapi grows, so does our team. This month, we’re excited to introduce a few of the amazing people working behind the scenes to make it all happen.
Maud - Intern MarCom (Zuyd/CMD)
“Art is my anchor —in creating, observing, and experiencing art, I find my balance.”
Marit - Intern Research (UM)
“I love how L’Okapi explores the impact of music and art on mental well-being.”
Aga - Ass. Booking & Production
“L'Okapi is the place to share, listen, give and receive. Exactly what Maastricht needs."
Snap shots
Snap shots
“Music knows no boundaries. It’s a universal language, a loyal friend in moments of joy, reflection, and struggle. In a world increasingly divided, music can bridge gaps—bringing people together regardless of backgrounds, beliefs, and perspectives, reminding us of our harmony in humanity.”
L’Okapi aims to be a haven for everyone to play, listen, learn, connect or share what’s on their mind. Expect interactive concerts, skill-building workshops, thought-provoking talks, community gatherings, ongoing research, and, above all, lots of music. Whether as a musician or scientist, professional or amateur, student or caregiver. Feel free to join!
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