Joseph Ryelandt’s grand piano and the English Convent.

Joseph Ryelandt (7 April 1870 – 29 June 1965) is one of Belgium’s most important composers, and in his day his music was performed both at home and abroad.

There is no doubt that he was deeply connected to the city of Bruges. Bruges is not only his birthplace; he also lived there, served as director of the Conservatoire from 1924 to 1945, died there and is buried there.

The composer had a sister and a sister-in-law who both entered the English Convent in Bruges. This led to the convent inheriting his grand piano following Joseph Ryelandt’s death.

Once the instrument has been restored, it will take on a new role from September 2026 in our concert series ‘Concerts at the English Convent’.

Your support makes all the difference! Every donation, however small, brings us one step closer to restoring this special instrument. Together, we are preserving Bruges’ musical heritage for future generations!

You can make a donation to the English Convent’s bank account (IBAN BE03 3800 0041 8484), quoting ‘donation for grand piano restoration’.

The English Convent

The English Convent

Library and Archives