Dozens of photographers, journalists and musicians were present in the Volendams Museum on Sunday afternoon. The band members of The Cats, who are still alive; Piet Veerman, Arnold Mühren and Jaap Schilder, all around 80, received the award from the hands of singer Mell, the granddaughter of Piet.
Granddaughter Mell gives ‘Bap’ award
Mell is super proud of her ‘bap’ (grandfather in ‘t Volendams). “It is especially special that this prize is borne by our colleagues, all musicians in the Netherlands.” Piet receives the Award with a big hug.
Arnold Mühren takes the floor after the presentation and thanks the musicians and says that getting this award is so special. In his speech, Arnold looks back on winning the first gold record. “That was very different, then we just got one.” Now all gentlemen get a round glass jar.
‘Jan is not a eelsound’
The Volendammer Jan Akkerman, who has received the oeuvre prize from the hands of his daughter Laurie, then praises. Arnold: “Jan lives in Volendam, but comes from Amsterdam. He was so smart to marry a Volendam woman,” he laughs. “Jan is therefore not a eelsound, Jan is world sound.”
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