Former European champion Brass Band Willebroek has announced that after 28 years of playing, principal euphonium Stef Pillaert decided to retire from banding.

Conductor and mentor Frans Violet agreed with his decision following a series of meetings.

Highly respected

Stef was a member of Brass Band Willebroek for nearly three decades, starting his career on second baritone before eventually becoming one of the most highly respected principal euphonium players in European banding.

Perfect example

A band spokesperson told 4BR: "Stef was the perfect example of a hard working musician, as he combined a full time day job as a teacher with hours of practice every day."

They added: "Stef promoted his instrument both as a soloist and as a brass band musician, and many young euphonium players in Belgium were inspired by him."

Stef promoted his instrument both as a soloist and as a brass band musician, and many young euphonium players in Belgium were inspired by himBrass Band Willebroek

Highlights

Stef commented: "I am thankful for all the years of top banding – the seventeen Belgian titles, three Europeans, and many more successes and solo prizes.

The opportunity playing ‘Pantomime’ in the Royal Albert Hall is one of my personal highlights. I wish the band all the best for a very bright future."

Great honour

Fellow euphonium player Nick Ost added: "It was a great honour to play for 18 years with Stef. I thank him for everything he has done for Brass Band Willebroek."

Conductor Frans Violet and the members of Brass Band Willebroek added: "We wish to thank Stef Pillaert for all the years of serving the band. In 28 years Stef hardly missed a rehearsal or concert — he was the paragon of band commitment."