On the occasion of the Day of the Constitution of the Slovak Republic, the Embassy of Slovakia in The Hague hosted a festive evening at the historic Kloosterkerk. H.E. Mr. Juraj Podhorský, Ambassador of the Slovak Republic to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, welcomed guests to a cultural celebration featuring the acclaimed Slovak jazz duo Lash&Grey.
The duo, widely recognized as one of Slovakia’s most celebrated musical duo, has gained international acclaim for their emotionally rich songwriting, genre-blending sound, and magnetic live performances. Their music redefines the sound of modern soul and jazz, carrying the voice of a new generation of Slovak artists to audiences across Europe and beyond.
In his address, Ambassador Podhorský highlighted the deeper meaning of the evening:
“On the 1st of September, Slovakia remembers the adoption of its Constitution, a defining moment in our modern history. Yet tonight, I would like to speak not so much about laws or political frameworks, but about something more universal – the way culture shapes who we are, and how we connect to one another. Culture, as the great Dutch humanist Erasmus observed centuries ago, is the common bond of humanity. It transcends borders, languages, and forms. It creates bridges and deepens relations where dialogue alone may fail.”
The Ambassador also reflected on milestones of shared memory and cultural cooperation. Marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, he underlined the enduring value of peace, while celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Danubiana Meulensteen Museum of Modern Art – a cultural gem on the banks of the Danube, symbolizing Slovak–Dutch cultural ties.
Ambassador Podhorský referred to the Biennial of Illustration Bratislava, an international competition and exhibition that has inspired generations of children worldwide. He was pleased to note that award-winning works by Slovak illustrators were displayed within Kloosterkerk itself, transforming the venue into a gallery of art and wonder.
The evening also highlighted the bonds between Slovak and Dutch youth. Many young Slovaks, studying at Dutch universities, enrich bilateral relations by building friendships that will endure across lifetimes.
Introducing Lash&Grey, the Ambassador described their music as:
“A rare alchemy – simultaneously fresh and bold, yet deeply rooted in tradition. It carries across borders and generations, reminding us that the story of culture is always being written anew.”
The concert drew a distinguished audience, including ambassadors, diplomats, heads of international and European organizations, Dutch officials from various ministries, and members of the Slovak community. Guests remained after the performance to enjoy a warm reception, where authentic Slovak cuisine and hospitality complemented the evening of music and art.
The celebration elegantly underscored the richness of Slovak culture, the friendship between Slovakia and the Netherlands, and the universal language of music.
