Foundation NBK, the organisers of the Dutch National Championships have revealed the Fourth Division set work that will test bands in Utrecht later this year.

It follows the announcement made in recent weeks of 'The Necessity of Renewal' by Dennis Hazenoot (Second Division), 'Inner Citadel' by Geert Jan Kroon (First Division), and 'Spirit of Life' written by Meindert Boekel and arranged by Philip Harper (Third Division).

Pioneers of the Past

'Pioneers of the Past' by the critically acclaimed composer Jan de Haan was originally commissioned in 2022 by the fanfare band CMV De Bazuin from Lutjegast.

Now transcribed for brass band for the 45th edition of the NBK and to coincide with the composer's 75th birthday, it is inspired by three great explorers from history — Marco Polo, Christopher Columbus, and Abel Tasman.

Enjoyment

Speaking about the work, the composer stated: "I'm delighted that it has been chosen. It will be quite a challenge, but I expect the bands to approach it with great enthusiasm and enjoyment."

The work consists of several linked sections which each depict a characteristic phase of the journeys undertaken by the explorers; from the expectant departure to exciting, shifting atmospheres of uncertainty and challenge and finally to triumphant discoveries — each packed with adventurous writing and stylistic variety.