“De fluitende faun” a brief from a prisoner in 1944 describes him so aptly. This whimsical sculpture before you is the Fluitende Faun. It embodies the spirit of Hans Krieg. Krieg was a musician who brought light to life in Kamp Westerbork.
He taught children songs with his guitar. He would pop up unexpectedly playing his recorder. The Fluitende Faun captures that playful essence.
The letter describes Krieg as a rather imposing figure in barrack 68. He was known throughout the camp. Always wearing a greasy brown Basque cap. He wandered from barrack to barrack with his music books. He was giving lessons to the children.
He repeated a Yiddish or Hebrew song countless times. That was his forte. Yiddish and Hebrew. As soon as he struck the first chords on his guitar his whole being transformed. He didn’t just sing or say his songs he lived them.
As a faun he was unique. He always had his recorder with him. At the most unexpected moments he would appear and start to play. His small black sharp eyes sparkled like a child who had been naughty. If someone unknowingly hummed a tune and Hans noticed he would sneak up behind them. When they looked around bewildered he would laugh.
The Fluitende Faun reminds us of Krieg’s ability to bring joy in dark times. When I think back on Westerbork one of the few bright spots connected to it will be meeting and listening to Hans Krieg.
Margriet Vroomans created a podcast series Muziek tot leven. It was about Hans Krieg and other musicians during the war. The Fluitende Faun is more than just a sculpture. It is a symbol of resilience and the power of music. It honors a man who used his talent to uplift others in the face of unimaginable hardship.
The sculpture you see embodies Krieg’s playful spirit. It reminds us to find joy in unexpected moments. The Fluitende Faun stands as a tribute to Hans Krieg’s legacy. It ensures that his music and his spirit will continue to inspire.