The conducting baton has been passed from father to son at European youth champions Young Brass Band Willebroek, as Frans Violet has entrusted the musical direction of the band to his son Lode.

Family tie

It further strengthens a family tie that saw Frans form and then direct the band for the first 15 years of its existence. Lode, now aged 22, was brought up through its ranks to become principal cornet, as well as with Brass Band Willebroek.

They have also enjoyed a great deal of success together, with Young Brass Band Willebroek becoming a three time European Youth Champion, as well as winning many domestic Belgian titles along the way.

Time to hand over

Frans told 4BR: "For me the time had come to hand over the youth band. By doing this, I will be able to fully concentrate on the further development of Brass Band Willebroek, which is now very busy.

There have been a lot of great moments to enjoy, such as the hat-trick at the European Youth Championships, which I am very proud of.

Together with Christine Segers, Director of the 'GO! Academy' of Willebroek, we know Lode will be wonderful conductor and will help develop further players who we hope will eventually join Brass Band Willebroek in the future."

Lode graduated at the Music Academy of Willebroek with a degree in conducting, and is currently Resident Conductor of Mercator Brass Band working alongside MD Johan De Win.

There have been a lot of great moments to enjoy, such as the hat-trick at the European Youth Championships, which I am very proud ofFrans Violet

Inspirational

In response, Lode told 4BR: "I am very proud to take over the role from my father, who has been such an inspirational musical figure to everyone associated with Young Brass Band Willebroek. I can only pass on my thanks and those of all the players for what he has done for us all."

He will make his contest conducting debut with the band at the Belgian National Championships late this year in the Third Section.