The Belgian champion will give its supporters a sneak preview of its Stavanger preparations Belgium's representatives at this year's European Championships in Stavanger will be hosting a special 'Try-Out' evening to preview their preparations on the contest's set-work 'Transitions in Energy' by Fredrick Schjelderup as well as their own-choice test-piece selection the band will look to add to its tally of three European titles together — the first in 1993 The event takes place on Sunday 4th May at 8.00pm at Zaal Concordia in Rotselaar The band has also announced that young players can now register to take part in their Brass Band Willebroek Academy 2025 although a number of places have already been snapped up It has also been confirmed that the popular Willebroek Solo Contest will take place on Sunday 9th November 2025 in the Gemeentelijke Schouwburg and the GO For further details on all three events go to: https://www.brassbandwillebroek.be/ TAGS: Brass Band Willebroek 4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month May 5 • 60 bands will look to take one step closer to the British Open this weekend in Blackpool May 5 • There has both audience and critical approval in abundance after David Childs gave the world premiere of James MacMillan's Euphonium Concerto 'Where the Lugar meets the Glaisnock' in Cardiff May 5 • Granite City Brass will celebrate its 175th anniversary thanks to sponsorship from leading vehicle assessor and towbar specialists Mototech Aberdeen May 5 • The Onyx Brass quintet will join forces with Hammonds and Amersham Bands for a musical soundscape of the Halocene epoch as part of the New Music Biennial 2025 Saturday 10 May • Winter Gardens Complex May 5 • Ocean Brass are inviting applications for our Principal Cornet position as we prepare for an exciting schedule of concerts and contests in the second section through 2025 and beyond May 4 • Following a successful start to our 2025 contest season Rode Hall Band are looking for a good FRONT ROW CORNET player to join this enthusiastic friendly and progressive 3rd section band based on the Cheshire/Staffordshire border Rode Hall Band are looking for a good SOPRANO CORNET player to join this enthusiastic that's not compatible with this news ticker Europe's sole Jewish news and information service the European Jewish Press is the sole online Jewish news agency in Europe The privately funded Brussels-based outlet is an independent media body It aims to provide both Jewish and non-Jewish audiences around the world with balanced up-to-date and reliable news reports on issues of concern to the Jewish communities worldwide European Jewish Press news are read by individuals European Jewish Press is an affiliate of Jewish News Syndicate (JNS) and collaborates with EU Reporter Cheatham’s professional career will begin in first tier of Belgian basketball Kwan Cheatham Jr., a former Akron hoopster, will begin his professional career abroad after inking a deal with Belgian side Kangoeroes Basket Willebroek. The signing was first reported by Twitter’s Scouting Mania and later confirmed by Cheatham and Akron basketball on their respective Twitter pages Cheatham was a part of two regular-season MAC Championship squads and saw post-season action twice with appearances in the CIT and NIT Tournaments averaging 11 points and 7.8 rebounds per game including 38.8 percent from three-point range The Kangoeroes are members of the EuroMillions Basketball League (previously known as the Ethias League,) which is the first tier of Belgian basketball E.ON Power Plants Belgium (EPPB) Bilfinger Engineering played a crucial role in creating the basic engineering for E.ON's advanced energy project E.ON plans to build an innovative energy recovery plant at the Imerys production site in Willebroek the plant is designed to generate ample electricity for the site and around 40,000 nearby households This syngas is a byproduct of Imerys' carbon black production which is essential for lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles. Bilfinger Engineering supported E.ON by providing a cost estimate and swiftly preparing comprehensive documents for permit applications within a challenging timeframe Bilfinger Engineering’s contributions were pivotal in realizing E.ON's sustainable energy vision showcasing their commitment to innovative engineering and reaching project milestones.  The project was successfully completed within a condensed 7-month period showcasing the team's ability to efficiently navigate tight deadlines and complex logistics Although managing communication with the end customer through E.ON was challenging at first Bilfinger Engineering improved this by participating in meetings with the two parties thereby enhancing direct communication and alignment. Despite the tight deadlines and the dynamic nature of contractor supply chains E.ON's proactive involvement and provision of essential information facilitated thorough research and smooth project progression all necessary permits were successfully obtained This achievement underscores Bilfinger Engineering's commendable performance throughout the entire process The core team from Bilfinger Engineering was based in Belgium and the Netherlands with specialized expertise, such as turbine knowledge and drafting coming from colleagues in Germany and Ukraine Even though the team was working from different locations the proactive approach through consistent communication and regular check-ins proved to be successful in mitigating possible challenges posed by the geographical diversity of the team Collaboration across borders in this project is a great example of the added benefit Bilfinger can offer clients as all required disciplines and expertise are in-house the facility will have a positive environmental impact generating electricity with significantly lower CO2 emissions compared to conventional power generation methods What sets it apart is the heightened requirements placed on the burners due to the unique gas composition emanating during production. Furthermore the plant will play a role in enhancing local air quality by utilizing exhaust gas treatment to minimize sulfur and nitrogen emissions Our contribution to this energy recovery plant is a great example of how Bilfinger Engineering creates a future-proof and sustainable industry." Download the project reference sheet With the opening of the municipal administration building in Willebroek this small town between Antwerp and Brussels has been given a new landmark The new building created by the Brussels design studio BRUT is integrated into the historical centre and is at the same time contemporary Five years ago the city council in the Flemish town of Willebroek decided to locate its different administrations within a new building as part of a bigger plan to integrate the town’s public services. The result is a municipal administration building that breaks with tradition, fits neatly into the townscape and creates a new central meeting place for the town’s 25.000 inhabitants. © Thomas de Bruyne“We had a lot of constraints. These are quite densely populated streets. We needed to create a very big volume in a very small space, so we had to be inventive,” explains Gunther Slagmeulder, chief architect to the project and partner in the Brussels design studio BRUT, a young Belgian enterprise specialising in architectural projects and urban design. © Steven Neyrinck“It had to be expressive and stand out, so people can see that this is a public office and the building that citizens have to go to. So we exaggerated it and made a contemporary translation of the other key buildings in the area,” says Slagmeulder. © Steven NeyrinckTo maintain the privacy of the neighbouring houses the back of the building is defined by stepped terraces covered with green roofs, which create a pleasant green view from the inside offices while sheltering the surrounding gardens from view.   SectionThe Willebroek municipal administration was inaugurated in 2012 and has become a new and much talked about landmark in the area much to the joy of the architects behind it You'll now receive updates based on what you follow Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors If you have done all of this and still can't find the email The muncipality of Willebroek (Antwerp province) has become the last municipality in Flanders to have a new municipality coalition The local list Iedereen 2830 has given way and accepted a veto of the nationalist Team Eddy list against one of its councillors Iedereen 2830 will be expelling Karim Hassoun from its group on the council Although not happy at having to expel one of its councillors at the demand of what will now be its coalition partner Iedereen 2830 says it had little choice if Willebroek were not to be declared ungovernable In a press statement Iedereen 2830 wrote that "Karim is an active citizen of Willebroek that with his 740 preference votes received a strong mandate from the voter He is a symbol of the reaching out and rejuvenation that Iedereen 2830 strives for Although we still believe that the veto is unacceptable during the conciliatory talks it was obvious that this was something that N-VA Team Eddy would not compromise about” Consequently Iedereen 2830 decided "After long and careful thought” to break out of the political impasse that had stalled progress on a new municipal coalition for the pazst 3 months Mr Hassoun has said that he will now sit on the council as an independent Iedereen 2830 was keen to highlight the many social elements it says are included in the coalition agreement with the centre-right N-VA Team Eddy The agreement makes Willebroek the lasty municipality in Flanders to have a new municipal coalition Brass Band Willebroek retains their Belgian title to book their berth in Stavanger Brassband Zuid-Limburg and Academic Brass Band in Heist-op-den-Berg Isabelle Ruf-WeberSet Work: The Lost Circle (Jan Van der Roost)Set Work/Own Choice = Total Brassband Willebroek (Frans Violet): 95/98 = 96.502 Noord-Limburgse Brass Band (Ivan Meylemans): 94/95 = 94.503 Brass Band Heist (Bert van Thienen): 92/93 = 92.50*4 Brassband Buizingen (Tijl Verhaeghe): 89/96 = 92.505 Festival Brassband (Steven Verhaert): 91/91 = 91.006 Brass Band Gent (Luc Vertommen): 90/89 = 89.507 Brass Band Leieland (Sam Werbrouck): 87/90 = 88.508 Kortrijk Brassband (Ward de Ketelaere): 86/87 = 86.50 Best Soloist: Kevin Van Giel (euphonium) — Brass Band WillebroekBest Percussion Section (Set Work): Noord-Limburgse Brass Band Isabelle Ruf-WeberSet Work: The Last Journey (Bert Appermont)Set Work/Own Choice = Total Brassband Bacchus (Bart van Neyghem): 87/92 = 89.50*2 Mercator Brass Band (Johan De Win): 85/94 = 89.503 Brassband Scaldis (Lorenz Havermans): 88/88 = 88.004 Braz'art (Geert Verschaeve): 86/87 = 86.50*5 BB de Grensbewoners Smeermaas (Danny Aerden): 84/89 = 86.50 Best Soloist: Euphonium of Mercator Brass Band Isabelle Ruf-WeberSet Work: Wigerathorp (Jan de Haan)Set Work/Own Choice = Total Brassband Panta Rhei (Frank Vantroyen): 89/89 = 89.00 Best Soloist: Flugel of Brassband Panta Rhei Isabelle Ruf-WeberSet Work: Variations on a Norwegian Hymn (Tom Gontier)Set Work/Own Choice = Total Brassband Zuid-Limburg (Tim De Maeseneer): 87/85 = 86.00 Best Soloist: Cornet of Brassband Zuid-Limburg Academic Brass Band (Luc Van Gorp): 87.00 Best Soloist: Euphonium of Academic Brass Band 65 performers took to the stage to try and claim one of the four category titles that were on offer at the Cultuucentrum De Star Willebroek The third edition of the Willebroek Solo Competition recently took place at the Cultuucentrum De Star Willebroek with 65 participants from seven different countries battling to stake a claim to a share of the 5,000 Euros pot of prize money 12 prize winners in the four different categories eventually caught the ears of the international adjudication panel of Sophie Binet-Budelot They in turn stated that they had been "amazed"by the standard of playing and the atmosphere positive and friendly," Erik Janssen told 4BR: "The standard was amazing and it was particularly encouraging to hear less experienced players as well as established performers and the top five in each section could have won any solo competition relaxed approach and the fact that all soloists feel so welcome in Willebroek are a major part of the success." The first prize in the Blue Riband 19 years and above category went to Tom De Laet who performed 'Introduction & Rondo Capriccioso' by Saint-Saens Tom received the first prize of €1,000 euros donated by Lemca Musical Instruments the Frans Violet Trophy and an invitation to perform as a soloist with Brass Band Willebroek The 'Up to and including 12 years of age' title was won by Leonore Dobbelaere (who came third in 2021 and runner-up in 2022) whilst the '13 to 15 Years of age' honours went to Warre Dendievel Jan Van de Watering (who claimed the 13-15 title in 2021) this time claimed that '16 to 18 years of age' award FTCL LTCL LDBBA DipMusEd GMus QTS NPQH Conductor Brass Band Willebroek successfully defend their World Championship title in Kerkrade whilst there are Division crowns for Brass Band Bacchus Brass Band Gloria Dei and Brass Band Aukstyn Brass Band Willebroek led by Frans Violet successfully defended its WMC World Championship title in Kerkrade Although the Belgian band did not top either the set-work or own choice programme disciplines over the two days of competition performances of high-quality discipline and musicality saw them take the honours ahead of Swiss champion Valaisia with Black Dyke in third With the withdrawal of fellow Belgian contender Festival Brass Band and Immortal Brass Eternally from Japan due to Covid-19 and air travel problems just six bands competed for the 4,000 euro first prize and the right to hoist the WMC Concert Division Champions flag in triumph after the Dutch band led after the first day thanks to an expertly tempered rendition of the set-work 'Contest Music' whilst French champion Hauts-de-France was fifth ahead of American visitors James Madison University Wilfred Heaton's masterful composition once again bared its teeth on the Friday evening as the six contenders set out their test-piece credentials ahead of their 40 minute own-choice programmes on Saturday afternoon It was Schoonhoven that provided judges Dr Robert Childs Jan van der Roost and Florent Didier with the lead marker as MD Paul Holland elicited a dynamically controlled sympathetically informed interpretation that brought the score's inherent transparency to bear Aided by excellent individual contributions led by principal cornet Denis Vork the intricate ensemble detail of the score was clearly delineated without artifice in the cavernous expanse of the Roda Hall Little wonder in his post-performance interview Paul Holland said that "everything went to plan" a few too many little smudges in the first movement cost Black Dyke the complete technical security required to set an unbeatable marker off the number 1 draw whilst Brass Band Willebroek's richly mixed ensemble tonality was occasionally at odds with the stark austerity of Heaton's writing in third Prof Nicholas Childs told the live broadcast viewers at home that 'Contest Music' "was a proper test-piece"- still as hard "no matter how many times you play it" whilst Willebroek's principal cornet Lode Violet said that every player knew that "every bar should be perfect" Behind them there was much to discuss as Swiss Champion Valaisia's muscular dynamism led to some individual brittleness that scarred their exciting approach whilst both Haut-de-France and James Madison University couldn't quite match execution to intention There was plenty to play for then as the sextet prepared to deliver their 40 minute own-choice sets to an enthusiastic audience and the 'open' adjudication panel of Russell Gray Here the tables were turned as Valaisia produced a stunning display of virtuosity under Arsene Duc The choregraphed antiphonal opening of Damien Lagger's 'Euroflash' led into a sumptuous performance from Glenn Van Looy of Wim Bex's 'Eagle's Flight' It deservedly give the imperious star the 'Outstanding Soloist' award on a day when all six bands featured their euphonium players The driving precision of Kenneth Hesketh's 'Masque' contrasted the cool sophistication of Pat Metheny's 'Letter from Home' before they closed with a brilliant reprise of Bert Appermont's 'A Gabrieli Fantasy' which they had used at the Swiss and European Championships Arsene Duc could say in summing up his feelings in his post-performance interview was that he was "very proud and very happy" especially with the Gabrieli which was in his opinion "extraordinary in what the composer wants" not only of his solo performance on a piece that was arranged from the original for the event Overall though it wasn't enough to make up the ground to snatch victory from their Belgian rivals Frans Violet drew deep into Willebroek's well of musical inspiration to provide a balanced set in coming runner-up that also offered an intriguing opening comparison in Damien Lagger's 'Euroflash' The hauntingly melancholic sounds of Ben Holling's 'Memories of a Lost Boy' balanced the playful contrasts of Kevin van Giel's accomplished euphonium solo 'Pulcinella' before they closed with Oliver Waespi's coruscating 'Other Lives' that bubbled with dark menace and 'Sliding Doors' intrigue It was the vital element in securing overall victory — a knack they have displayed going back to their first European title success in 1993 under their peerless MD that few can match their soloist said that he felt overall it was "really good" despite the somewhat "far away acoustic" in the hall whilst Lode Violet said that as a young band "we want to do more" although he thought his father "was happy." Black Dyke's hopes of becoming World Champion for the first time since 1970 ended in disappointment as their high-powered approach failed to capture the imagination of the judges as much as it did with listeners in the hall The amuse-bouche 'A Fantasy of Joy' from Fredrick Schjelderup and substantive main course 'Beethoven' work from Philip Wilby that followed (also based on the 9th Symphony 'Ode to Joy') seemed to offer a curious musical segue Both choreographed (the latter featuring no less than 14 cameo solo spotlights) — the opening item somewhat dulled the expectant palette for what was an absorbing 11 minute long interactive audio-visual 'guide' to the brass band much like Benjamin Britten's celebrated 'Purcell' inspired orchestral tour An eye-popping piece of 'Bravura' euphonium playing by Daniel Thomas led into an excitable account of Peter Graham's 'Triumph of Time' but it wasn't to be enough to see the World Champion accolade head back to Queensbury Brass Band Schoonhoven couldn't quite repeat the excellence of their test-piece offering although there was much to admire with the approach and execution of their set — from the opening 'A Brighter Light' by Philip Wilby and 'St Peter's Chorale' by Jonathan Bates to the closing reprise of their European own-choice selection Robbert Vos was the excellent focal point on two movements of Philip Sparke's 'Diamond Concerto' Hauts-de-France also reprised their European own-choice of Pierre-Antoine Savoyet's ornate 'Sinfonietta No 2' to round off a set that embraced Heaton's 'Toccata' and a lovely cameo 'Love Story' specially realised by Howard Snell from his major 'Gallery' test-piece James Madison University also showcased their emerging top flight credentials under Kevin Stees as they under-lined their considered set with a reprise of Paul Lovatt-Cooper's 'And from the Darkness' which was recently used at the North American Brass Band Championships World Championship winning joy once again then for Brass Band Willebroek as they successfully defended their title and waved the WMC flag in triumph following an uplifting results ceremony that featured the spectacle of the infectious enthusiasm of the 12 strong Brass for Africa Ensemble and the energetic playing of the WMC World Youth Brass Band Just as in the Championship Division the previous day there was a great deal for judges Dr Robert Childs Florent Didier and Jan van der Roost to compare and contrast in a slightly uneven First Division battle between rivals from Belgium Philip Sparke's 'Tallis Variations' proved to be a stern test of technique as well as style whilst at times selected ambition perhaps exceeded realistic expectation in the 30 minute sets as they topped both elements to claim their third World title following successes at Third and Second Division levels in 2001 and 2009 respectively Dotted with experience throughout their ranks (including the welcome sight of Raf Van Looveren on principal cornet) they opened with Marin Cordner's 'The Adventurers' before contrasting the set-work with an evocative account of Jonathan Bates' Antarctic inspired 'Amundsen' Earlier the marker had been set by fellow Belgian contenders Mercator Brass off the number 1 draw who must have tempered his celebrations from the night before after the victory of Brass Band Willebroek they opened with tuba player Stijn Aertgeert's flowing 'Osterfjorden' Their euphonium soloist Tom de Laet gave a confident rendition of Max Bruch's 'Kol Nidrei' before 'Tallis Variations' was topped by the fizzy 'Opening Night in Las Vegas' by Reid Gilje to close Third place went to Brass Band Merum with a set that included the opener 'I'll Walk with God' and the dramatic The remaining top-six places were claimed by Pro Rege Heerenveen whose excellent cornetist Dirk van Dijk took the 'Best Soloist' award for his overall contribution to their programme whilst Ensemble de Cuivres Ambitus were fifth who gained the musical achievement award after also overcoming a number of last-minute problems posed by Covid-19 to make it to the event There was a comprehensive Dutch victory in the Second Division where Brass Band Gloria Dei retained the title won in 2017 with a performance of imposing authority under MD It was their third successive Kerkrade success (they also won the Third Division in 2013) and came courtesy of a triptych of high-quality performances — right from the opening drive of Etienne Crausaz's 'The Turtle Dove' They followed it with an evocative account of Thibaut Bruniaux's 'Babylon' first used at the French Nationals in 2018 and which offered an excellent contrast to the contained requirements of Gilbert Vinter's 'Entertainments' — played with a confident assuredness and directed with informed nuance Their exceptional cornet player Oebele van der Heide deservedly claimed the 'Best Soloist' award "I'm very happy,"the MD said in his interview but I was very happy with the musical journey." but he said that the band had played the Vinter previously so knew it well whilst they worked for seven weeks on 'Babylon' "I've heard a lot of music of Vinter — 'Spectrum' of course but with 'Entertainments' you hear everything It looks easy but the clarity is the difficulty" The Belgian contender Brass Band Panta Rhei had earlier given the judges a substantial marker off the number 1 draw Led by Brass Band Willebroek horn star Tim De Maeseneer they opened with the grand sounds of Jan Van der Roost's 'Hypernicon' before a well delivered set-work segued into their closing item of 'A Flowing Friction' by Lode Violet Third place was claimed by Dutch contender Brass Band Excelsior Ferwert who opened with the quiet reflection of 'All in the April Evening' before moving into the set-test and finishing with Kenneth Downie's 'Purcell Variations' The growing maturity of the Lithuanian brass band movement was shown in the Third Division where the World Championship crown was won by Brass Band Aukstyn After showcasing their talents at the European Youth Championships in Birmingham in May the young band made the trip to Kerkrade encompassing five days of travel through Poland and Germany Each day they stopped for four hours of rehearsal before ending at the home town of conductor Piet Visser to give a concert as they produced a sparkling opening of 'Celebrity' by Swiss composer Mario Burki followed a fine rendition of the set-work that included confident choreographed solo cameos from all featured players with a swaggering account of Duke Ellington's 'Caravan' to claim the title The MD who has worked in Lithuania for over 25 years developing a foundation of brass banding in small villages and towns spoke with great pride after the performance "When I first went there we had a small joke to just get a band to play in tune Now they are so enthusiastic that they can do anything." Although there were only three bands taking part in the contest with the Belgian duo of Brass Band Hombeek in second who featured the cleverly conceived and choreographed 'Gammel Dansk' Their outstanding flugel player Christine de Pauw took the 'Best Soloist' award for her touching rendition of Caccini's 'Ave Maria' It was to be the vital element in securing overall victory — a knack they have displayed going back to their first European title success in 1993 under their peerless MD that few can match4BRDenis Wick Championship/Concert Division:Adjudicators: Set Work: Dr Robert Childs; Jan van der Roost; Florent DidierOwn Choice programme: Russell Gray; Jan de Haan; Hannes BucheggerSet-Work: Contest Music (Wilfred Heaton)Set Work/Own Choice = Total Brass Band Willebroek (Frans Violet): 93.00/97.33 = 95.17 2 Valaisia Brass Band (Arsene Duc): 91.50/98.33 = 94.923 Black Dyke (Prof Nicholas Childs): 94.00/95.33 = 94.674 Brass Band Schoonhoven (Paul Holland): 95.00/93.00 = 94.005 Hauts-de-France Brass Band (Luc Vertommen): 91.00/95.33 = 93.176 James Madison University Brass Band (Kevin Stees): 88.00/91.00 = 89.50 Best Set-Work Performance: Brass Band SchoonhovenOutstanding Soloist in Own Choice Programme: Glenn Van Looy (euphonium) — Valaisia Brass Band First Division:Adjudicators: Dr Robert Childs; Florent Didier; Jan van der RoostSet-Work: Tallis Variations (Philip Sparke)Set-Work/Own-Choice programme = Total Brass Band Bacchus (Bart van Neyghem): 96.00/95.00 = 95.502 Mercator Brass Band (Johan De Win): 94.33/93.00 = 93.673 Brass Band Merum (Theo Wolters): 93.33/92.33 = 92.834 Pro Rege Heerenveen (Anne van den Berg): 91.67/89.67 = 90.675 Ensemble de Cuivres Ambitus (Gilles Rocha): 91.33/88.67 = 90.006 Regent Brass (Alan Duguid): 87.67/87.00 = 87.337 Flixton Band (Matthew Ryan): 86.33/85.67 = 86.008 United Harriet Colliery Band (Harry Vorselen): 85.00/85.33 = 85.17 Musical Achievement Award: Regent BrassBest Soloist: Dirk van Dijk (Brass Band Pro Rege Heerenveen) — cornet Second Division:Adjudicators: Russell Gray; Hannes Buchegger; Jan der HaanSet-Work: Entertainments (Gilbert Vinter)Set-Work/Own-Choice programme = Total Brass Band Gloria Dei (Gerk Huisma): 94.67/96.33 = 95.502 Brass Band Panta Rhei (Tim De Maeseneer): 94.33/88.67 = 91.503 Brass Band Excelsior Ferwert (Gijs Heusinkveld): 90.33/90.33 = 90.334 Gereformeerde Brass Band Groningen (Jan Werkman): 89.67/90.00 = 89.835 Martini Brass Band (Rieks van der Velde): 89.33/88.67 = 89.006 Brass Band Schoonhoven B (Zoran Rosendahl): 87.67/89.67 = 88.677 Lewis Merthyr Band (Craig Roberts): 87.33/86.67 = 87.00 Musical Achievement Award: Brass Band Gloria DeiBest Soloist: Oebele van der Heide (Brass Band Gloria Dei ) — cornet Third Division:Adjudicators: Dr Robert Childs; Florent Didier; Jan van der RoostSet-Work: Albinus (Etienne Crausaz)Set-Work/Own-Choice programme = Total Brass Band Aukstyn (Piet Visser): 95.33/94.67 = 95.002 Brass Band Hombeek (Stan Nieuwenhuis): 94.00/94.67 = 94.333 United Brass (Frank Vantroyen): 92.00/91.67 = 91.83 Musical Achievement Award: Brass Band HombeegBest Soloist: Christine De Pauw (United Brass) — flugel These are the performers who made a mark on 4BR in the last 12 months to book their place in the ranks of our 2024 Band of the Year Once again in 2024 there were plenty of outstanding individual as well as ensemble performances to enjoy throughout the banding world The demands of modern solo and test-pieces may well highlight great technical virtuosity but sometimes it is the little moments of melodic lyricism that makes the hair on your neck stand on end These for us were the performers that combined both on the contest and concert stage There was something about the style and the character of the way in which they performed that set them apart this year in their work the criteria for selection is simple:  It's not just who we think are the best conductors and players but those we believe have made a lasting impression with their playing in 2024.  There were plenty of established performers on the very top of their game but even more encouraging was the emergence of a new generation of players imbued with musicality and this year a new generation of players have certainly staked their claim for inclusion (members of the sections are in alphabetical order).  and although we are sure not everyone will agree with the choices it’s a formidable line up for any concert appearance if we could get them all together for one night Arguably the top two conductors in the banding world in 2024 Both excelled in leading their respective bands on the contest stage – notably against each other at the British Open Theodoloz also led Treize Etoiles in a stunning appearance at the RNCM International Brass Band Festival whilst Holland took his baton further afield to work impressively with the likes of Tertnes and Schoonhoven A new generation of outstanding cornet players is at last starting to make their mark on the banding movement although the familiar faces once again showed that age has not wearied their talent.  Luke Barker (above) enjoyed a superb year leading with such maturity and musicianship from the end chair with Flowers.  His performances stood out in a band playing at the very highest level Lewis Barton wowed brass band and classical music critics with his performances with Leyland and the NYBBGB and Mathilde Roh excelled again as the lynchpin of Treize Etoiles.  Another young principal cornet who caught the ear in 2024 was Henrik Rydland Anundsen with Krohnengen – classy and consistent Tom Smith has evolved into a superb principal cornet with Brighouse & Rastrick whilst Lode Violet stamped his class once more with his contributions to Willebroek’s performances on stage and in the recording studio Denis Vork at Brass Band Schoonhoven thankfully delayed his ‘retirement’ to showcase his qualities there and on his travels whilst Kevin Hickman did the same in the southern hemisphere claiming the Australian Solo Championship and coming runner-up in the New Zealand Champion of Champions.    Roger Webster provided a swan song (or so he said) of breathtaking brilliance from Blackpool to Palanga and in stealing the show at Brass in Concert There were a host of superb soprano players on show throughout the banding world this year He was simply exceptional; the purity of his tonality backed by cast iron technique and the musical intelligence to employ it all in the right place and not just when the spotlight fell on him.   There wasn’t an audience that wasn’t left spellbound Becoming ‘4BR Player of the Year’ was an endorsement of his class in 2024.  it is very difficult to pick just one player to fill the flugel seat but this young performer may well come to reserve the place on quite a few occasions in the years to come if she continues to develop as she has done in the past year The move to Queensbury certainly didn’t faze her and her performances with the NYBBGB in high profile events were also outstanding wonderfully gifted and ever explorative tenor horn performers in the banding world.  Mike Ford became New Zealand ‘Champion of Champions’ soloist of the second time 22 years after his other title success.   Not only that (on what was his 22nd appearance in the ‘Blue Riband’ final) he also won the Open Duet title was part of the winning Nelson City Brass ensemble and was the ‘Best Soloist’ on the set-test in the A Grade National Championship contest in south Auckland.  2025 will be a very important showcase year for Tim De Maeseneer but all the groundwork for his major solo recording and performance project was done in the past 12 months This saw him undertake recordings of specially commissioned works by Edward Gregson Thierry Deleruyelle and Bert Appermont amongst others as well as continue his work at the LUCA School of Arts and at the Royal Danish Conservatoire in Copenhagen The long-awaited return of Sheona White to the recording studio was marked by not one but two releases of the highest quality in 2024 ‘The Beauty Within’ and ‘New Music for Eb Tenor Horn and String Orchestra’ showcased new solo avenues whilst her performances at the RNCM International Brass Band Festival and as the voice of ‘Keli’ in Martin Green’s visceral ‘Split the Air’ production brought acclaim from critics within outside the banding movement Two performers who offered such complementary displays of the baritone art in 2024 Mike Cavanagh once again reminded us of just how effective and wonderfully manipulated the instrument can in solo mode – from his superb concerto performance at the RNCM International Brass Band Festival as well as on multiple concert and contest stages throughout the year Erlend Oian meanwhile provided the essential bridge between the middle and low brass of Eikanger – both subtle and bravura Even in works of pyrotechnic flash and wizardry Something of an annual unenviable task this given the quality of performers we are lucky to hear just about week in week out but these former ’Band of the Year’ members once again reminded us of just what makes then that extra special The move from Cory to Flowers reinvigorated Daniel Thomas giving Paul Holland’s band an extra cutting edge of virtuosic brilliance.  The eye-popping ability to wow was certainly on display this year in solo mode but it was as a prize-winning leader with the Flowers ensemble that gained an extra level of maturity Glenn Van Looy was imperious as a soloist and as a band performer.  As a soloist he continued to push the boundaries and scope of the instrument as a teacher he continued to inspire and as a band performer he simply took the breath away at the Swiss Open and again at the Swiss Nationals.  Three wonderful performers - each different in their outlook and experience Lionel Fumeaux once again lived up to every expectation that followed him to the RNCM International Brass Band Festival in Manchester in January as he delivered a quite staggering ‘Fly or Die’ solo performance on bass trombone with Treize Etoiles.  Back in the alto ranks he was on sublime form on the contest stage too Vidar Nordli produced performances of rare viscosity in being the lead disciple of Eikanger’s fictional ‘Jesus in Tibet’ extravaganzas in Bergen and Palanga but also shone in everything else he did in the orchestral and brass band spheres.  RWCM&D student Aileen Orr is certainly making her mark as a player not just in the banding world with her own band at Tongwynlais but also in a wider sphere too with the likes of English National Ballet Young Musicians Symphony Orchestra and the World Youth Orchestra.  adjudicate and write and you have a seriously impressive young musician The foundation stones on which any successful performance was built in 2024 – these were the players who headed sections that added rich inky depth as well as subtle textures to go with the heft Their colleagues all share in the accolade as these were leaders of fantastic tuba teams A six player percussion team that has all the talents to hit tickle and amaze us all on just about every instrument under the sun.  Anthony Mann of Foden’s will be the person in charge after he once again showed his all-round qualities from Enigmas to Muhammad Ali this year whilst the trio from Altena Brass (above) were the best perc team we heard on ‘The Lost Circle’ all year.  The two youngsters from the NYBBGB were the leading lights in a brilliant section of players who were asked a lot and deliver it all in spades on their courses and concerts this year 4BR wants to ensure that the brass band movement remains vibrant and relevant challenge and critically examine those who run and play in it producing high quality journalism that informs as well as entertains our readers independent perspective on the brass band world - then why not consider becoming a supporter and help make our future and that of a burgeoning brass band movement more secure Support us     Tim De MaeseneerFeaturing: Brass Band WillebroekConductor: Frans VioletRecordings: CD Multidisc.be At a time when many brass band CD recordings have lacked ambitious endeavour to become little more than sell by date post-concert merchandise the best solo recordings have embraced new and exciting musical horizons Belgian tenor horn star Tim de Maeseneer certainly looks afar A player of extravagant technical gifts and elegant musical impulses he is a highly respected (and successful) solo performer as well as a member of Belgian champion His debut release features eight premiere recordings (seven of which specially commissioned) - each with an identifiable stamp of artistic individuality even if some of the repertoire does travel a familiar topography of construction.  the trio of ‘A Tiny Trilogy’ by Lode Violet Christopher Bond’s ‘Tranquillum’ (featuring his horn section colleagues at Brass Band Willebroek) and ‘Excursions for Horn’ by Philip Harper are pleasant diversions in their different ways It would have been good to hear the solo voice placed in a different focal context.   Of greater interest though is what surrounds them.  Maarten Vermeersch’s ‘Impressions for Tenor-horn’ has an expressive scope that flows in a wide melodic arc to leave a deeper resonant mark on the mind with its witty Prokofiev undercurrents swirling through the staves has an acidic bite that also stays fresh in the memory banks leaves an acidic bite that also stays fresh in the memory banks Pimpanit Karoonyavanich’s fascination with the mysteries of the sea has already seen the young Thai composer write two appealing works for the brass band medium Her writing has an evocative nautical feel; ‘Across the Ocean’ an adventure that embraces agitated turbulence to serene calm The soloist bestrides the decks like a horn playing Captain Ahab in search of his ultimate quarry The title track is a colourful soundscape palette of lucid ideas and ideals – three contrasting movements providing a personal portrait of the artist painted by composer and brother Jan de Maeseneer.   It is a virtuoso showcase played with flair and understanding the full panoply of skills expertly controlled even at the extremities and an engaging counterpoint to Philip Wilby’s ‘Fantasie Concertante’ this premiere recording is long overdue - all the more so as it’s a masterful piece of writing (based on a touching affection for Cervante’s famous dreamer Don Quixote) based around a central ‘Soliloquy’ core.  De Maeseneer commands the attention with an informed perspective of a storyteller’s skill for subtle phrasing shaded tonal texture and adroit sensitivity.    It is outstanding playing on a release of many outstanding qualities https://www.timdemaeseneer.com/product-page/the-birth-of-time-echoes When a group of Chinese entrepreneurs visited Willebroek they were welcomed by saxophone players and bright red balloons They were also welcomed by the European Market City a commercial real estate plan aimed at Chinese companies initiated by the local developer Group Bernaerts aims to attract Chinese companies - using three programs for new enterprises - as well as Belgian and other European companies It's intended to be the first project with a comprehensive strategy for Chinese companies' needs the first phase of the building project known as China Brand Center consists of a cluster of 32,000 square meters of corporate showrooms and to initially have 40 Chinese companies including the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Ltd the "Dragon Rising" program provides a package of services such as market research meeting all the needs of every Chinese business that moves into the European Market City," said Guido Bernaerts said it is providing market research service to Yancheng Calechem Co Ltd The questions the Chinese company asked were about issues such as the organization of distribution and logistics in Europe and quality and pricing demands Bernaerts said the project will integrate Chinese companies and corresponding European companies Under a program called "Bring the Customers to You" EMC will establish databases listing potential customers mail them information and organize trade fairs The annual rent is a competitive 150 euro ($200) per square meter and rent will be free for a year for Aigo Entrepreneur Alliance members a complex that houses many incubators at the center in Brussels also offers free rent to Aigo Entrepreneurs Alliance members for the first year | About us | Contact | Copyright @ 2012 Ministry of Culture, P.R.China. All rights reserved Logout Gateway to the global feed industry Nuscience Group will invest in Belgium and the Netherlands to build new state-of-the-art production facilities These investments are part of a reorganisation of the production set-up in the Benelux to increase cost efficiency and to specialise the factories at the same time Nuscience Group produces premixes and specialty ingredients on three locations in Belgium: Drongen mainly for the Belgian and international markets In Utrecht the production site is specialised in production of premixes The new facility in Drongen will be built on the same location Production at Baasrode and Willebroek will be closed In Utrecht Nuscience has acquired the Agrifirm Feed plant next to the current premix production factory The purpose is to construct on this site a new premix and protein concentrates factory focusing on maximum cost-efficiency Drongen will become the expertise centre for producing piglet feeds piglet concentrates and specialty ingredients and of course also anything that comes out of Nutrition Sciences For Utrecht we keep the focus on large volumes of premixes ‘This investment plan has started and will probably be finalised by end 2015’ ‘We will bring four production sites together on two sites in order to increase efficiency and to specialise production where it is appropriate All the action from the 2017 European Championships — Youth Section — as it happened Best Instrumentalist: Thomas Fountain (cornet) Youth Brass 2000 Best Instrumentalist: Joseph Heartfield (trombone) — Elland Silver Youth A relatively short contest by comparison to the remainder of the weekend The quality of the playing has been very good demonstrating that there is a lot of fine talent around Europe with a number intent on returning next year and beyond Of the four bands its Young Brass Band Willebroek and Youth Brass 2000 that stood out for us and the winner could justifiably go to either of them That decision is down to Mr Houben and Mr Thornton of course The results will be announced after the concert by the European Youth Band The final 'Dimensions' of the contest takes a little time to settle before the players find their musical feet Daniel Bjornell steps forward and digs deep to deliver a 'Rusalka's Song to the Moon' 'Till Matilda' is light and breezy whilst the quartet that leads the way in 'The Irish Blessing' display warm musical sounds and they are tenderly supported by the ensemble a rarity on this intensive musical weekend and the former signature march of the great Yorkshire Building Society Band Overall: Another well judged programme that certainly played to the strengths of the band The Swiss challenger takes to the stage and immediately shows its potential with a measured reading of 'Dimensions' It's paced to allow the music to shine and whilst not everything clicks into place the burgeoning maturity of the playing is apparent Nadaj Gerber is a cornet player to look out for after a bold eight minutes of playing in Gregson's 'Prelude and Capriccio' The opening was reflective whilst the 'Capriccio' is jazzy before the lyrical technique of the player comes to the fore 'Shine as the Light' suits their lovely tonal qualities There is a real vividness here about the playing and the tempo never drags There are some fine individual contributions along the way and it closes confidently Overall: A well judged programme from a band with a lovely sound The defending champion really goes for the jugular from the off with the high octane PLC 'Enter the Galaxies' Anyone having a Sunday afternoon snooze will have been jolted by that one Next we have the distinguished cornet sounds of Lode Violet in the premiere of 'Pictures from Wartime' The accompaniment is both sensitive and intense as it portrays the terrors of war The reaction of the composer at the end says it all 'Dimensions' is given a tasteful rendition There are some excellent contributions from all around the stand with fine solo voices Full marks to Frans Violet for the way he has laid this performance out The drums beat as players move positions and then they are un-leased; instrumental contributions of the highest order Overall: You have to remember this is a youth band Stunning stuff and wonder if another title could be in their grasp The English contender starts their bid for the title with 'Amazonia' from 'Windows of the World' without the MD stepping foot on the stage To say they are 'pumped up' is an understatement Peter Graham's 'Dimensions' is not out of their comfort zone The ensemble sound is nicely compact and the solo lines lyrical and expressive but you'd have thought the MD would be more than happy with that account Thomas Fountain steps forward to deliver a cracking rendition of 'Jubilance' by William Himes — one that is both agile and forthright As those in the UK and much further a field know 'Abide with Me' — the Christian hymn by Scottish Anglican Henry Francis Lyte once more features Thomas Fountain as the cornet lead and is ably supported by a lovely ensemble and warm sounding horn The finale from 'Dances and Arias' is rich in clarity and musical intent and doesn't hang around to round of things is imposing fashion Overall: An excellent programme and a substantive marker to beat There will be a short break now before the Premier Section starts in twenty minutes with two different judges What a great way to spend a Sunday morning Six bands who really enjoyed their contesting experience and delivered some great contrasting programmes The set-work was a good choice — not beyond them — but tested the basics of good band playing It will be a dog fight at the top and a case of whether Elland Silver Youth can stop the Norwegians finishing first and second The Scots could just be on the heels of the top three though The results will be announced after the Premier Section and concert by the European Youth Band The Scots close the contest with a programme influenced by their MD The opening 'Starlight' is full of musical vigour and intent The MD drives the passion through the veins of the players and they respond superbly Callum Robb is composed in the tranquil 'than water...' — again composed by the MD What lovely playing this is; so tender and delicate but so much to appreciate from the opening 'Allegro Molto e Ritmico' And whilst there were some tricky moments in the central element the closing 'Gallop' finds them in their comfort zone The offbeat Simon Dobson 'Firefly' is music they thrive on The percussion keeps the pulse moving briskly and there is real energy about the playing with the MD using his own compositions to expertly play to the strengths of his ensemble The second Norwegian contender (packed with players) takes to the stage to loud applause from supporters in the hall they start by making an impression with 'Pseude-Yoik' — full of great detail Great care is taken with each section with lots of good musical contrasts but the MD knows how to nurture things and just get on with it a female vocalist who not just brings something different No karaoke rock style hitting you between the eyes but tender lyrical singing before being joined by other players very classy stuff with excellent ensemble playing that never interfered with the singing Martin Winter's flamboyant 'Red Shoe Dance Sequence No 2' showcases a flugel player who demonstrates real virtuosity but it doesn't detract from the performance The closing 'The Incredibles' flies along with breathtaking musical freedom and clarity Overall: With Eikanger's victory in the Championship Section you start to wonder if the Norwegian competitors will take all before them this weekend Seriously impressive and going to be close at the top The Lithuanians take to the stage resplendent in green shirt The opening fanfare ''Tu mums viena' is brief and compact Arnold's set-test proves to be a touch tricky There are some of nerves and unease (especially in the middle section) that test them but full marks to the conductor who steadies things whilst they relax more in the homeward 'Galop' The young cornet player produces a lovely sound and technique in the old standard 'Carnival of Venice' Matthew Hall's 'The Smile' is beautiful and tender incorporating three favourite hymn tunes of the composer's grandfather who insoired the work To close comes 'Funky Brass' — and its just that: Funky off the wall and full of fun with fine solo and ensemble additions In the context of the competition it had didn't have some of the clarity of the others but what a fine ensemble in the making this is The English contender opens its challenge with the first two pieces a reprise of part of their National Youth Competition programme earlier this month 'Fanfare for a New Age' with cornets and trombones standing is not just full of clarity and great detail but is tight and cemented together so well 'The Wind beneath my Wings' is a sumptuous bit of trombone playing from a young man who took the Instrumentalist prize in Salford at the Youth Championships Such great technique and the ensemble accompaniment is nicely balanced Dan Price's 'Starburst' hits you between the eyes and features some rich musical sounds and great percussion playing Simon Dobson's delightful 'Little Hymn' opens up with a lovely quartet from the side of the stage It's nicely controlled and leads into ensemble playing that is delicate on the ear and delivered without fear 2' opens with energy which is maintained throughout the opening section The 'Cavatina' — 'Andante Con Moto' central section displays a firm hand from the middle The 'Galop' doesn't half fizz around but the clarity is great Overall: High quality playing from the Yorkshire outfit As they say in that part of the world: 'ave it' — and they certainly didn't hold back Sam Harrison encouraged and smiled all they way through which was great to see — and you could understand why The defending champion from Norway hits the ground running with the funky 'Unisons' that is full of clarity and detail Attention turns to the set-test and there is real attention to detail here in the opening 'Allegro Molto e Ritmico' The central 'Andante Con Moto' is steady with just the odd bit of unease in the ensemble with tight control on the dynamics and tempos Next up is the tender sound of the tenor horn — and what a fine bit of playing this is in 'Glasshouse Whispers' So secure in the technical and musical elements and the ensemble playing is of such a high quality The closing 'Caravan' just dazzles — and isn't right in your face There is some great solo lines and ensemble playing Overall: The defending champion really delivered the goods today and it will take a band in great form to beat them The opening march bristles with energy and has tasteful dynamics and confidence grows as the players know things are going well The traditional Celtic melody 'The Maid of the Mourne Shore' features a lovely sounding cornet that stands in front of the band without nerves The accompaniment is sensitive and nicely balanced Next up we hear the first offering of the set test for the section This takes time to settle as some nerves creep in especially within the ensemble especially in the concluding section that bubbles along nicely 'Standing on the Promises' is a fun number with a confident bass lead that puts a smile on the face The closing 'Prismatic Light' moves along with a good pulse but there is just a hint of tiredness in the ranks Overall: Great show — not easy at 9.30am on a Sunday morning Test Piece: 'Little Suite for Brass No.2 (Sir Malcolm Arnold) & Own Choice Programme Test Piece: 'Dimensions' (Peter Graham) & Own Choice Programme The bands involved in the Championship and Challenge Sections will have partied hard into the early hours and some perhaps won't have gone to bed The youngsters involved today will have been tucked up well before the results were known last night in preparation for todays event 4BR's Malcolm Wood will be bringing live comments with Iwan Fox and Ian Clowes backstage Join us throughout the day for our coverage The intense heat of the past few days is being followed by cloud Central areas of the country have already received a drenching with flooding in some places The Royal Meteorological Institute (KMI) has issued a Code Yellow warning for heavy rain and thunderstorms that is applicable to the entire country with the exception of East and West Flanders The 1722 hotline to which non-life-threatening emergencies can be reported is operational The first thunderstorms were on Tuesday night KMI had issued a Code Amber weather warning for rain and storms in Limburg and Liège Provinces Code Yellow was (and indeed still is) in force elsewhere in the country with the exception of East and West Flanders In the Ardennes in particular there was a lot of rainfall on Tuesday night The Code Yellow weather warning will remain in force until 4pm in Hainaut Flemish and Walloon Brabant and Antwerp Province Namur and Luxembourg provinces and 7pm in Liège Province KMI says that the storms are moving very slowly and as a result large amounts of rain could fall at some locations within a short space of time This has already been the case in Brussels and in Antwerp Province 39mm of rain fell in the Antwerp district of Wilrijk in just 1 hour The Fire Service in Willebroek (Antwerp Province) received dozens of calls to deal with weather-related issues Several streets have been closed due to flooding The Fire Service was also called out to deal with flooding in Boom and Puurs-Sint-Amands (both Antwerp Province) Buses on 2 routes through Willebroek and Boom have been diverted due to flooding Although we are not yet halfway through the month last night’s storms have meant that the rainfall record for the month of August has already been broken At the KMI weather station in Ukkel (Brussels) there have already been 100mm of rainfall this month The normal average rainfall at Ukkel in August is 86.5 mm August 2024 is the 11th consecutive month with above average rainfall Officers from the Mechelen-Willebroek Local Police Service have detained a 51-year-old man who allegedly shot several people with an air rifle The air rifle and pellets were found at the suspect's home the police believe that there are more victims and are appealing for them to come forward the police received four reports of people having been shot by an air rifle on the Melaan in the centre of Mechelen The first report dates from the beginning of May A further 3 incidents have been reported during the past two weeks Three of the four people that reported having been shot at were injured Dirk Van de Sande of the Mechelen-Willebroek Local Police Service told VRT News that "An 11-year-old boy was hit in the lower back She even had to undergo surgery to remove the pellet The last victim was injured in the upper arm last Wednesday she was not injured but her jacket was damaged." the police were able to detain a 51-year-old man from Mechelen An air rifle and pellets were found at his home on the Thaborstraat The drainpipe at the rear of the man’s house was found to have large number of pellet impacts which would suggest that he had used it for target practice The man is now in custody pending further investigation The police fear that the suspect may have shot more than the four people that have reported incidents to them so far They are appealing for additional victims and witnesses to come forward