Besson cornet artist Harmen Vanhoorne has told 4BR that he has taken the difficult decision to end his playing association as principal cornet with Brass Band Buizingen.

Difficult decision

It comes after the band regained the Belgian National title in memorable style in Heist-op-den-Berg last weekend, enabling them to qualify for the 2016 European Championship in Lille next May.

"It has been a very difficult decision to make,"Harmen exclusively told 4BR.

"However, the opportunities that have now arisen through my solo work as a Besson artist have become increasingly important, and with the additional conducting work I want to develop this is the right time to take the next step in my professional career.

Exciting opportunities such as my current trip to the United States are avenues I wish to extend and explore."

Sad

He added: "However, at the same time I'm naturally very sad because I've enjoyed 14 amazing years with Buizingen.

I will always remember all the great moments I've experienced working with such a superb conductor in Luc Vertommen and with my wonderful friends in the band."

Highlights

Harmen recalled some of them to 4BR: "Personal highlights such as winning the Belgian National title — the last time only a week or so ago, competing at the Europeans, recording CDs and concerts and releasing my own solo CD 'Fortune's Fool' remain forever.

Then of course to top it all, I met my wife Cynthia in the band — so having them play at our wedding was perhaps the most memorable occasion of all."

I will always remember all the great moments I've experienced working with such a superb conductor in Luc Vertommen and with my wonderful friends in the bandHarmen Vanhoorne

Amazing form

He concluded: "Buizingen is on amazing form and I'm sure they will continue to grow and gain further success — starting at the Europeans next year.

I am so grateful to Luc and the band for all the good times and opportunities I have been given throughout those 14 years and I wish them all the best for their future."