Conductors Paul Holland and Erik van de Kolk are to lead the inaugural concert performance of the newly formed Nederlandse Jeugd Brass Band (Dutch Youth Brass Band) this weekend in Hilversum.

It will be the culmination of an ambitious initiative by two Brassband Schoonhoven players who were inspired by the success of other national youth bands around Europe.

Trombonist Siebren van Noort and cornet player Melvin van der Vis felt that the Dutch banding movement was missing a wonderful opportunity to give talented youngsters the opportunity to meet up and perform together — as well as have pride in being representatives of the nation.

Opportunity

Speaking to 4BR, Melvin said: "At present there is no government arts funded organisation such as that in the UK, so we took the opportunity to start things ourselves and build on the foundations of this weekend.

The response from young players was amazing and all have paid themselves to be part of it — including two fantastic weekends of rehearsals under Paul and Erik. We feel Dutch brass banding should have a youth band — one that can strengthen out movement by involving the next generation of players."

Ambition

There is certainly plenty of ambition on show, and not just through the excellent organisational abilities of those involved. Repertoire to be performed at the inaugural concert will include 'Spiriti' by Thomas Doss and Peter Graham's 'On the Shoulders of Giants'.

Support has also come from Besson, as Melvin added: "We can't thank Paul or Erik enough — they have ally inspired the players, and Besson's support has been crucial. It shows that they feel this is such an important initiative for Dutch banding."

Important development

Paul Holland is certainly looking forward to being part of what he sees as such an important development.

"Having been fortunate enough to conduct in The Netherlands and to see first hand how well things are organised at events such as the National Championships, I'm delighted to be involved at the beginning of what is a fantastic project.

It's been great fun, the enthusiasm and commitment is brilliant and the musical talent is very impressive indeed. Erik is great to work with and this could be the start of something that could have a huge impact of banding in the country for years to come."

Concert:

The concert takes place on Saturday 15th April (8.00pm) at the concert hall of the Muziekcentrum van de Omroep of the Radio Philharmonic Orchestra in Hilversum.

https://www.mcogebouw.nl/agenda/nederlandse-jeugd-brassband/