4BR has been informed that Dr Luc Vertommen has brought to a close his 25 year musical partnership with Brass Band Buizingen. It is understood that he will now work on a freelance conducting basis and on other major musical projects.

Fascinating

Speaking to 4BR he said: "This collaboration has been a fascinating musical journey for almost half of my lifetime. I wish to expressly thank BBU for the trust, musicianship and friendship they placed in me."

Appointed in 1992 with Buizingen in the First Section, Vertommen went on to develop the Belgian band into ones of the forces of European contesting, winning four National Championship titles, three Flemish Opens and a Dutch Open victory.

The band was runner-up at the All England International Masters and gained four top-six finishes at the European Championships in five appearances under his baton. They also secured victories at the European Open and top-six finishes at the World Championship in Kerkrade.

Artistic excellence

Off the contest stage the band gained a highly respected reputation for artistic excellence and inventiveness, performing in nine different countries and recording a dozen critically acclaimed CDs, including ones that actively promoted Belgian composers and writers.

This collaboration has been a fascinating musical journey for almost half of my lifetime. I wish to expressly thank BBU for the trust, musicianship and friendship they placed in meDr Luc Vertommen

Widespread acclaim

For their commitment to Belgian music, the band received both the Cultural Ambassadorship of Flanders and the Fuga trophy of SABAM, whilst the association with composers such as Nigel Clarke and artists such as Maurice Andre amongst many others also brought widespread acclaim.

Dr. Vertommen added: "I have enjoyed a wonderful 25 years with the band and wish them all the best for their musical future."