On Thursday evening, March 26th, the band Glitterpaard – or ‘Sparklehorse’ in English – took to the stage for a charity concert in support of Little Hearts. The performance took place at De Minard, Ghent’s oldest and most charming city theatre, a setting that proved as memorable as the music itself.
This special evening came together thanks to a collaboration with Paul Cools of La-On Lawyers. As former chairman and board member of the Flemish Opera, Paul not only has a deep love for the arts but also a big heart for Little Hearts – an ideal combination for a night like this.
Glitterpaard is a supergroup of Belgian talent, featuring artists who previously played in other well-known bands: Philip Bosschaerts (Mintzkov), Johan Verckist (Wardrobe), Damien Vanderhasselt (Millionaire), Sarah Pepels (Portland), and Frederik Bastiaensen (Marble Sounds). Damien, the band’s drummer, is part of the La-On team, so he’s both a musician and a colleague of Paul Cools.
The band released their debut album in 2022 and followed it up in 2025 with a second album titled ‘Thursday’ – a reference to the day the band regularly met to work on new music. Though, in true creative spirit, a few ‘secret sessions’ on other days of the week may have slipped in as well.
The story behind the album artwork is charming. It features a glittery crocheted horse, a gift Sarah (singer and keyboard) received from a fan. It’s proof that inspiration sometimes comes wrapped in the most unexpected package.
Musically, Glitterpaard is anything but one-dimensional. Their sound moves effortlessly from driving rock and groovy rhythms to more intimate, tender moments that tug at the heartstrings. At the end of the instrumental track ‘Days of Jupiter’, a voice declares: “We are at a pivotal moment in history.” A fitting reflection, not just for the song, but perhaps for the evening as a whole.
A full house filled the historic Minard concert hall in Ghent to support Little Hearts.
“It was truly inspiring to witness how music can bring people together, especially in support of a meaningful cause on the other side of the world. Thanks to this incredible turnout, we hope to give Little Hearts an extra boost—an initiative that remains very close to our hearts.
The evening was not only impactful, but also deeply moving, with the musicians quite literally striking a chord with the audience. We would also like to extend our sincere gratitude to them for their generosity and for helping make this special evening possible.” – Paul Cools
Together, Glitterpaard, La-On Lawyers and De Minard Theatre, along with a warm and generous audience, made a real difference for the kids of Little Hearts, as the benefit concert raised an impressive sum that will go directly to supporting the orphanage. It was an evening to remember, with music that resonated far beyond the stage.
From all of us here in Cambodia, we extend our deepest and most heartfelt thanks to Paul Cools for making this beautiful evening possible. Your kindness, dedication, and belief in our mission mean more than words can express. Across the distance, your support has touched many lives, and we are truly grateful for your generosity and the love you have shown to the children of Little Hearts.
