Besson are delighted to announce that the Principal Euphonium of the International Staff Band of the Salvation Army (ISB), Derek Kane has now received his new Besson Prestige Euphonium.

Legend

Derek Kane is without doubt a true legend within the ranks of the Salvation Army for his dedicated service and peerless performances with the ISB.

He began his euphonium playing as a member of the SA Junior Band in Hamilton, Scotland and appointed to ISB in 1976, recently completing 30 years in this position, playing under three bandmasters in that time, also serving as the band’s deputy bandmaster for the past several years.

It is responsive to the stylistic elements of my playing and enables me total control over my dynamic range. The intonation and tuning are superb and although this is the most in tune euphonium I’ve ever played...Derek Kane

Awards

The British Bandsman awarded him the prestigious award of Euphonium Player of the Year in 1991, presented on the occasion of an ISB centenary concert in the Fairfield Halls, Croydon.

Derick has travelled extensively with the band featuring as soloist and has many recordings of S.A. repertoire including the ‘Derick Kane Solo Album’, produced in 2005.

Compositions

Many composers have composed solo works for Derick to play, such as 'The Better World', 'There will be God', 'Spirit of Life', 'Canaan’s Land', 'Compelled by Love' and 'Lyric Variations'.

Travelled widely

Derick has travelled widely in the UK and abroad (including Canada, USA and Australia), as well as many parts of Europe, as a guest soloist and clinician and has worked with many S.A. bands and choral groups and in particular.

In the past couple of years, he has featured with the Aveley & Newham band joining them at the Brass Band Open Championships, & the National Finals, as well as other contest occasions, and concerts.

Star qualities

Derek recently wrote about the star qualities of his new euphonium.
"It has an excellent sound quality throughout the range and in addition the improved valve technology and smooth action have really impressed me."

Totally responsive

He added: "It is responsive to the stylistic elements of my playing and enables me total control over my dynamic range. The intonation and tuning are superb and although this is the most in tune euphonium I’ve ever played, I really like the smooth trigger mechanism."

Derek concluded: "Having always played Besson, I am pleased to be playing this new Prestige which I’m sure for me, and many others, will maintain, the Besson satisfying playing experience."