Flowers Band has confirmed the appointment of Brass Band Willebroek's Lode Violet to play principal cornet with them at the forthcoming British Open.

Regarded as one of Europe's finest young cornet talents, he recently helped Willebroek claim the World Championship title in Kerkrade, whilst last year he left a deep impression on critics and listeners alike at Symphony Hall as the Belgian band came fourth.

Fortunate link

Flowers Principal Conductor, David Childs told 4BR: "With players such as Andrew Smith, Ian Culross and Harmen Vanhoorne, Flowers has been fortunate to have had a number of superb principal cornet players in recent years, and this appointment carries on that link.

Lode is one of the most exciting cornet talents in the world, and I'm delighted he's able to join us for our appearance at Symphony Hall."

Privilege

The young Belgian is certainly looking forward to returning to Birmingham too, as he added: "Last year was my first appearance at such an amazing event with Willebroek, so this year I'm looking forward once more with such a fine band as Flowers.

'Fraternity' is also such a monumental piece, so this is a real privilege for me."

Lode is one of the most exciting cornet talents in the world, and I'm delighted he's able to join us for our appearance at Symphony HallConductor, David Childs

Exciting

Meanwhile, Band Manager John Gillam added: "We were sorry to lose former principal cornet Andrew Smith from the band due to personal reasons, but the appointment of Lode is so exciting.

We are very grateful to him agreeing to join us for the contest as it also allows us time to select a permanent replacement."