The sixth Brass Band Willebroek Academy recently brought together over 60 young brass and percussion players for six days of inspirational music making and friendship.
The players worked in two bands under the expert direction of Frans Violet and Luc Vertommen, with a focus on Belgian brass band repertoire and in particular that of celebrated Belgian composer Jan Van der Roost, whose works 'Toccata Festiva' and 'From Ancient Times' formed the centrepiece of final concert programme.
Team
The musical development was supported by an outstanding team of tutors: Jeroen Corneillie, Lode Violet, Tim De Maeseneer, Jonas Violet, Wim Lauryssen, Stijn Aertgeerts and Ken Gybels. Their expertise and enthusiasm contributed greatly to the musical progress and enjoyment of the participants throughout the week.
Much more
A band spokesperson told 4BR: "The two ensembles presented their work to the public during concerts at Lier's Grote Markt and in the Heilig Hartkerk which made a great impression.
The Academy is about much more than rehearsals and concerts though and everyone also enjoyed a quiz night, boat trip and a spectacular Gala Ball, where Anne-Sophie Leveugle and Thibaut De Bondt helped guide and accompany the younger participants.
These activities created plenty of opportunities for the musicians to get to know each other and build friendships beyond their musical activities. After another successful edition, expectations are already high for the next Brass Band Willebroek Academy next August."
These activities created plenty of opportunities for the musicians to get to know each other and build friendships beyond their musical activitiesBrass Band Willebroek
Solo competition
Willebroek has also confirmed that its popular Solo Contest is set to return on Sunday, 15th November, with registration now open. Entries have already been accepted from the UK, Kingdom, Germany, France and Belgium. The jury is Steven Verhaert, Steven Devolder, Renato Meli and Sheona Wade.
The contest has quickly established itself as an exciting platform for brass players with generous prize packages from a raft of sponsors. The senior title also comes with a €1,000 cash prize.
