Flowers turn to Violet

Flowers Band confirm Lode Violet as Principal Cornet for the forthcoming British Open at Symphony Hall in Birmingham next month.

The young Besson Artist has been instrumental in Willebroek's recent resurgence which saw the band from Belgium become World Champions earlier this year. Lode commented: "I'm very much looking forward to performing with the Flowers Band at the Open. Last year it was my first appearance at the contest with Willebroek, it is such an amazing event and one of the most prestigious brass band championships in the world. Fraternity by Thierry Deleruyelle is a monumental piece of the modern era and it will be a privilege to play in the magnificent Symphony Hall on this great work for Band."

Recently appointed Principal Conductor of Flowers, David Childs commented: "With players such as Andrew Smith, Ian Culross and Harmen Vanhoorne, Flowers have enjoyed working with some excellent principal cornet players in recent years, and the appointment of Lode Violet as principal cornet for the forthcoming British Open Championships sees this continue. Lode is simply one of the most exciting cornet talents in the world right now, and I'm delighted he's able to join us at Symphony Hall next month."

Band Manager John Gillam further commented: “It was very unfortunate that Andrew Smith had to leave the Band so suddenly due to personal reasons, but the appointment of Lode to lead Flowers in Birmingham is very exciting for the band and gives us some breathing space to select a permanent replacement Principal Cornet as soon as possible after the contest.”

Expressions of interest in the position of Principal Cornet can be made in confidence via the contact page of the band’s website: www.flowersband.co.uk