*
banner

Thursday interview with Luc Vertommen

We catch up with the Belgian conductor who has just led Haut-de-France to retain their French National title and book their place at the 2023 European Championships in Malmo.

Luc Vertommen
  Luc has now led the band to the French title on four occassions.

Can't see the audio player below? Visit soundcloud.com/4barsrest

It's the Thursday interview on 4BR and we are joined by conductor Luc Vertommen, who has just led Haut-de-France Brass Band to the French National title.

The band claimed the honour for a seventh time in thrilling fashion at the Theatre Charles Dullin in Le Grand-Quevilly in Normandy.

As a result they will represent the nation at the 2023 European Championships in Malmo in Sweden — although they also of course head to Birmingham to represent the nation at the 2022 event in a couple of months time.

Luc talks about the success — his fourth with the band — and what it means to a busy band who will celebrate its 30th anniversary.

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

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.

Support us    


Dutch National Championships

Countdown to Dutch National Championships

October 21 • The 2026 Dutch National Championships take place in Utrecht this weekend with 4BR covering the event at the TivoliVredenburg.


Hands up

Audition call for Scottish Youth

October 21 • Young players in Scotland are being encouraged to audition for the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain.


The Dutch Youth Band

Dutch Youth gains national support until 2029

October 21 • The Dutch National Youth Brass Band will be supported by the NBK Foundation until 2029.


Tommy Tynan

Tynan launches online Tuba Shop

October 21 • The Black Dyke Band tuba star has launched his online store that caters for all things low brass.


Regent Hall Concerts - Welsh Guards Band Septet

Thursday 22 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the RAF Regiment

Friday 23 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Redbridge Brass Band

Saturday 24 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


The Hepworth Band - Aireborough Rotary Club Annual Charity Concert

Sunday 25 October • Yeadon Town Hall, High Street, Yeadon LS19 7PP


Dobcross Silver Band - Tintwistle Band

Sunday 25 October • Dobcross Band Club. Platt Lane Dobcross. Oldham OL3 5AD


Northop Silver Band

October 22 • PERCUSSION PLAYER - We are a Championship Section competing band based in North East Wales. The band are friendly and ambitious, with an active contest and concert diary.


Cambrian Brass

October 22 • We are always happy to hear from anyone interested in joining our friendly, supportive band, whether you are returning to banding, looking for a new challenge, or have moved to Aberystwyth for university.


West Yorkshire Police Band

October 22 • BBb bass and back row cornets are sought to complete our line-up. We are a well supported band with a unique calendar of events including foreign travel. We rehearse at Carr Gate nr Wakefield on Mondays and Thursdays.


Ian Porthouse


Cornet soloist, clinician, conductor and adjudicator


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd