Kingdom Brass has announced the signing of five new players ahead of the Scottish Championships.

Belgian star

Heading up the list of new players is Belgian cornet star, Raf Van Looveren. The principal cornet of Brass Band Willebroek, and formerly the solo champion of Europe, Raf will be joining Kingdom on principal cornet for the contest.

Raf will also be passing on his experience to the Kingdom Brass Youth Band, in a special workshop on Saturday, March 6th as well as being the featured soloist at the ‘Night of Brass’, organised by the band to allow local bands a chance to perform their regional testpieces.

Heading up the list of new players is Belgian cornet star, Raf Van Looveren4BR

Rising star

Joining Raf is rising star, Eoin Tonner. The highly talented musician will have a joint role within the Kingdom organisation, taking on the task of Assistant Musical Director.

Horns

Another young star joining the ranks is horn player Rachel Neil, who makes the step up from local band Dunfermline on 1st horn. Rachel has appeared several times with the band. A few weeks ago she won the 21 and under solo prize at the Fife Solo and Ensemble contest.

Joining Rachel is former Whitburn horn player, Mike Marzella. Having taken a back seat from playing in recent years to concentrate on conducting, Mike steps in to cover the 2nd horn seat.

A band spokesperson told 4BR: "Mike brings with him a wealth of experience, and Kingdom are glad to have him in the team for the Scottish Championships."

Tuba return

Finally, Eb bass Gareth Ross returns to the band. A former Scottish Solo Champion Gareth replaces Jim Kelly who has made the move from Kingdom Brass to Lochgelly.