Eikanger changes as historic season comes to an end

The newly crowned European champion will have some new, as well as some returning personnel in its ranks later this year.

There will be a some new faces in the ranks at Eikanger Bjorsvik later this year

Wednesday, 31 May 2017

The newly crowned European champion, Eikanger Bjorsvik has announced personnel changes that will be implemented in August — the traditional end of the Norwegian band's season.

Tuba and trombone

After a decade of playing Eb tuba, Trond Helland steps down to concentrate on conducting with Ila Brass and Ulriken Janitsjar. He will also return to play his former band at Kleppe Musikklag. His place will be taken by Sondre Ã˜ysteinson Undertun from Krohnengen Band.

Meanwhile, solo trombone Vidar Norli will take a leave of absence from August to January, to play in the Royal Danish Orchestra (Det Kongelige Kapel) in Copenhagen. Former solo trombonist Grethe W. Tonheim will return to temporarily fill the role.

Thanks

Trond Helland told 4BR: "After 10 successful years it's time to pursue my conducting as resident for Ila Brass and with freelance work. I will also enjoy going back to play with my old band, Kleppe Musikklag.

I would like to thank Eikanger-Bjorsvik for the opportunity to play alongside some of the best musicians in the banding world, and I'm really looking forward to now becoming an avid supporter!"

His replacement, Sondre Ã˜ysteinson Undertun added:"I'm proud of being offered the opportunity to play with Eikanger. Growing up with teachers and conductors from the band, and watching school band members joining them over the years, has made this a big dream for me.

I'm sad leaving Krohnengen, which has meant a great deal to me, and wish them future success."

Excited

Meanwhile, Vidar Nordli told 4BR: "I'm very excited to perform with the Royal Danish Orchestra and delighted that Grethe was able to come back to cover for me. I know I leave my chair in very experienced hands."

In response Grethe added: "I'm thrilled to be back playing with the European Champions for the forthcoming Autumn season. It's always an honour and I'm ready to enjoy it all again."

This is a remarkable time for the band, and we are pleased that we can ensure we progress further with common musical understanding for our new performersBand spokesperson Viggo Bjorge

Musical understanding

Band spokesperson Viggo Bjorge told 4BR: "We are delighted to be able to welcome our new member Sondre and the return of former player Grethe. We also wish to express our thanks to Trond for 10 years of outstanding commitment and dedication, as well as wishing Vidar success in Copenhagen.

This is a remarkable time for the band, and we are pleased that we can ensure we progress further with common musical understanding for our new performers."

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