Ed Struijlaart

De Troubadours: Back to My Roots in Leidschendam

De Troubadours: Back to My Roots in Leidschendam

In the heart of enchanting Leidschendam, the town where my journey as a singer once began, I took part in the inspiring music programme ‘De Troubadours’ (The Troubadours). Together with host Christon Kloosterboer I walked the streets I explored as a child and experienced a day full of memories, emotions and creative expression. The highlight of this special day was writing and performing our new song ‘Mooi Geweest’ (It Was Beautiful), a tribute to my deep-rooted connection with Leidschendam.

De Troubadours: A Musical Journey of Discovery

In the programme ‘De Troubadours’, Christon Kloosterboer - presenter and musician - takes the viewer on an enchanting journey through the northern part of the province of South Holland. Along the way he meets local musicians who share their connection with this region. For me this was a chance to return to my birthplace and explore and celebrate my bond with Leidschendam.

The Meaning of Leidschendam: Back to the Core

My hometown is more than just a spot on the map. It’s the source of my inspiration and the seed of my musical journey. During our tour through Leidschendam we visited the Petrus en Paulus Church, where I first raised my voice in a choir. That memory never faded and it was special to return to the place where it all began.

Music and Memories in the Air

Our journey led us further to the majestic Three Mills, an iconic location steeped in history and charm. Here we found inspiration in the past as we shaped our song ‘Mooi Geweest’. This song reflects not only my personal connection with Leidschendam, but also the beauty of memories that hang in the air, ready to be brought back to life.

A New Sound: ‘Mooi Geweest’

The highlight of our day was the creation and performance of our new song, ‘Mooi Geweest’. With the history, culture and spirit of Leidschendam as inspiration, tones and words came together to create a song that captures my bond with this place and the deep emotions it evokes. From writing to performing, it was a journey that touched my soul.

De Troubadours: Music Connects

‘De Troubadours’ is not just a music programme. It’s a bridge between artists, history and community. It brings landscape, culture and music together in a way that is profound and meaningful. For me this participation was a chance to share my love for Leidschendam with others and to bring my musical journey back to where it all began.

Looking back on my participation in ‘De Troubadours’ in Leidschendam, I realise how profoundly this place has influenced my life and music. My heart will always remain connected to the Petrus en Paulus Church, the Three Mills and all the streets that shaped my youth. ‘Mooi Geweest’ is not just a song; it’s a tribute to my bond with Leidschendam, woven with the sounds of my soul.

In short, participating in ‘De Troubadours’ gave me the chance to return to my roots in Leidschendam, to embrace my past and to share my love for this beautiful place with the world. Music has the power to bring memories to life and connect emotions, and I’m grateful that I got to share this experience with my hometown.

Watch it here on TV West

ed struijlaart de troubadours mooi geweest omroep west omroep max