Swiss star steps down from principal role

The outstanding Patrick Vergeres has stepped down as principal cornet of Brass and 13 Etoiles after enjoying a 27 year association with the band — and two decades on the end chair.

Patrick enjoyed 20 years as principal cornet of 13 Etoiles

Tuesday, 01 September 2020

One of Swiss banding's most respected cornet players has announced his departure from one of the nation's leading elite level bands.

Patrick VergÃ¨res has stepped down as principal cornet of Brass and 13 Etoiles after enjoying a 27 year association with the band — and two decades on the end chair.

Honour

It will also mark the first time since the year 2000 that he will not lead them at the Swiss National Championships, as he told 4BR that he wanted to make his decision and leave with the minimum of fuss.

"It's been a position that I have been honoured to hold and I felt now was the best time for me to leave after such a wonderful time. I felt that after 27 years and 20 as principal cornet that the time was right. I wish them all the very best and they will always be close to my heart — and I will remain their biggest fan!"

Loyalty and dedication

Patrick's association and rise through the ranks of 13 Etoiles has been marked by great loyalty and dedication — moving a young player from the organisation's B Band to the A Band — and from Third Cornet to Principal as his playing progressed as his talent blossomed.

He added: "I am so grateful for everything the band has given me. The only thing missing was to be able to help the band win the European Championship, but there have been many other successes to compensate for that — including eight National Championship victories!"

I am so grateful for everything the band has given mePatrick Vergeres

Next generation

During his tenure he gained a worldwide reputation for his playing — marked by a combination of superb technical proficiency and artistic flair.

"Now is the time for the next generation to come through"he said — including his own children, who he hopes will soon join him as he embarks on the next phase of his musical career with Concordia Brass Band in VÃ©troz.

"I still enjoy playing every day for the pure love of music — and especially when I can hear my children also enjoying doing the same thing.

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