Festival Brassband has announced that following a period of change, the Belgian Championship Section organisation believes that it is, "entering an exciting new chapter with a renewed focus on artistic excellence, friendship, trust and a shared ambition."

New MD

It follows the recent departure of former MD Guy Audenaert, with the band confirming the appointment of Senne La Mela as its new Music Director.

The Yamaha Artist is Professor of Trumpet at LUCA School of Arts (Lemmens Campus) and is a former Principal Trumpet of the Opera Royal de Wallonie-Liege. Later this year he will become Principal Trumpet of the Antwerp Symphony Orchestra.

Core values

Band President, Bernd van Echelpoel, stated: "Through his musical personality, extensive professional experience and fresh artistic vision, Senne La Mela will lead Festival Brassband into a new phase.

The band's renewed artistic identity is built on its core values: making music at the highest level in an atmosphere of respect, friendship and commitment."

The band's renewed artistic identity is built on its core values: making music at the highest level in an atmosphere of respect, friendship and commitmentBand President, Bernd van Echelpoel

New structure and players

The bands also confirmed a new organisational structure as it says it hopes to "further develop a warm, ambitious and sustainable organisation in which both musicians and audiences feel genuinely connected."

Several new members have also joined as the band looks to prepare for the Belgian National Championships in November.