In the mid-1990s, a young Dutch conductor left his small hometown in the Netherlands to live, study and work in the cultural mecca that is London.

From music college and early steps on the professional scene, to colourful travels throughout Europe and the USA, it turned out to be a roller-coaster of a journey filled with almost unbelievable but hilarious situations and events. There are also poignant moments though, most notably the invaluable time spent with the great Dutch conductor Bernard Haitink, during 'his' Ring Cycle at the Royal Opera House.

A tale of sky-scraping rostrums, disastrous operatic chaos and an unexpected marriage proposal from a Romanian General, this book is a love Letter to the larger-than-life personalities who inhabit the classical musical world. 'Let's try that again' paints a humorous but insightful picture of a cultural era, whilst sharing many conducting secrets and lessons learned. And on the way, it pays homage to some of the greatest musicians of our time.

"I laughed out loud a lot and shed the occasional tear. This book made me get to know music somehow, and fall in love with it all over again."

Karen Frijlink, former Artistic Director, Doorn International Chamber Music Series and Festival, Utrecht