On Tuesday, July 14, 2026, Jessica de Heer passed away at the age of 70. She was closely involved with Cappella Amsterdam: when the choir suddenly lost its funding, she was the one who, together with Anneke Hogenstijn, took charge of the choir’s future. Artistic Director Daniel Reuss reflects on what Jessica has meant to Cappella Amsterdam.
Artistic Director Daniel Reuss:
Two weeks ago, Jessica de Heer passed away at the age of 70. She was invaluable to Cappella Amsterdam and many other cultural institutions.
When our choir suddenly found itself without funding, it was Jessica who stepped in to help us. She did that with the same dedication she brought to everything she did: by rolling up her sleeves and just getting it done. Thanks to her dedication and that of Anneke Hogenstijn, Cappella Amsterdam still exists.
I’ve come to know Jessica as someone with a keen eye for beauty and quality, and a big heart for the people who create that quality. She combined a sharp mind with a sincere, warm concern for singers, composers, and colleagues. That combination is rare. Our profession is the poorer for it now that we have to do without her.
On behalf of everyone at Cappella Amsterdam, I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved.
