The Broekhuizenvorst and Ooyen Fanfare Band is not a very large ensemble. However, all types of instruments are represented. One of our band’s primary ambitions was therefore to expand our instrumental line-up, for example by recruiting new members and encouraging young musicians to come and play with us. Naturally, members also join our band from the youth academy. Another ambition of our fanfare band is to give a concert four times a year. These can be either light pieces or concert works. For 2023, we had set our sights on the competition on 5 November, where we defended our 3rd division status, resulting in a 1st prize with promotion, and winning the division. The challenge in achieving our ambitions is ensuring that everyone enjoys making music and continues to do so, whilst still progressing technically and musically. A goal set a little further into the future is to take part in the WMC in Kerkrade in 2026. Dirigent | Geert Schrijvers

Wilhelmina Easterein a household name since 1898! Christian Music Association Wilhelmina from Easterein is a very active association with approximately 50 members. The orchestra has been led by conductor Wilbert Zwier since November 2019. Wilhelmina was founded in 1898 on the occasion of the inauguration of Queen Wilhelmina. It is therefore worth mentioning that in 1998 fanfare Wilhelmina received a Royal distinction. Wilhelmina's activities consist of: • Giving concerts. • Participating in competitions or festivals in the 2nd division for fanfare orchestras. • Playing during King's Day, the village festival and at the arrival of Sinterklaas. • Playing at special occasions, church services or events. • Providing project-based music education at primary school De Foareker in Easterein. Dirigent | Niet bekend

Das Königliche Fanfare-Orchester Volksopbeuring Massemen wurde am 1. November 1931 gegründet und zählt heute zu den führenden Musikensembles in (Ost-)Flandern. Unter der Leitung von Dirigent Diederik De Roeck besteht das Orchester aus etwa 65 ausgebildeten Musikerinnen und Musikern. Seit 2008 ist es in der höchsten belgischen Leistungsstufe eingestuft und gewann vier nationale Meistertitel in verschiedenen Kategorien. Das Ensemble nahm mehrfach am alle vier Jahre stattfindenden World Music Contest in Kerkrade teil und erreichte 2022 den dritten Platz mit einer Goldmedaille. Neben eigenen Konzerten und Veranstaltungen absolvierte es Tourneen in mehrere europäische Länder und veröffentlichte zwei professionelle CDs.

Fanfare De Vriendenkring – Kessenich Founded in 1893, Fanfare De Vriendenkring from Kessenich (Belgium) is a vibrant and dedicated fanfare band with deep roots in local culture and community life. With over a century of musical tradition, the band has grown into a dynamic group that brings together musicians of all ages and backgrounds, united by a passion for music and performance. The band regularly performs at local events, festivals, and ceremonies, and has built a strong reputation through concert programs that blend classical, contemporary, and popular music. Under professional musical direction, De Vriendenkring is committed to artistic growth and musical excellence. In addition to its main orchestra, the fanfare also supports youth development through “Fun For Five,” a junior ensemble that nurtures young talent and prepares them for the larger group. More than just a musical ensemble, De Vriendenkring serves as a cultural ambassador for Kessenich, fostering unity, creativity, and intergenerational connection. With a warm sense of camaraderie and a forward-looking spirit, the band continues to make music that inspires and connects people—both locally and beyond. Dirigent | Toon Rutten

Die Blaskapelle „De Goorse Bloesem“ aus Heist-Goor entstand 1931 nach dem Bau eines Kinos und Tanzsaals und zählt damit zu den jüngeren Fanfarenorchestern der Region. Unter der Leitung von Stijn Aertgeerts, der selbst aus dem Ensemble stammt und als Dirigent, Komponist sowie Tubaspieler tätig ist, besteht die Gruppe heute aus etwa 45 Musikerinnen und Musikern, darunter mehrere Solisten und viele Nachwuchstalente. Mit der Jugendkapelle „Jeugdfanfare #Toeternitoe“ hat sich ein weiteres bekanntes Ensemble etabliert, das bei Veranstaltungen, Konzerten und Wettbewerben auftritt – zuletzt mit Erfolgen wie dem Sieg beim Vlamo Open Fanfare Championship 2024 und einem zweiten Platz 2026. Charakteristisch für das Orchester ist die familiäre und offene Atmosphäre.

The fanfare was founded in 1897 by a group of chimney builders and their friends. Because the members were “free” to donate any financial contribution, the association chose the name “De Vrije Burgers”. 30 musicians, led by conductor Hermans, manifested themselves in our village. In 1946, Mr. Desiré de Pauw from Maastricht became the new conductor and the fanfare earned the honorary title of “Koninklijke” (“Royal”). Participation in music competitions started in 1957 and we promoted to the division of excellence. Houthalen, October 15, 1978: 1st prize. Mechelen, May 20, 1979: 1st prize and National Champion of Belgium. Tessenderlo, October 8, 1989: 1st prize with distinction. 1° prize with distinction in the excellence department on 14 October 2001, with 87.7%; becoming provincial champion. Leuven 2002, national champion in excellence division. Provincial champion in 2004. Lemmens Institute in Leuven 2012: laureate in the excellence department with 90.50% and winner of the Vlamo prize for fanfares for the highest achieved result. Early 2015, under Loek Smeijsters, the fanfare promoted to honorary division. In 2017, our fanfare peaked with participation in the WMC in 3rd division with a result of 91% and a Gold Medal Dirigent | Loek Smeijsters

Die Königliche Fanfarenkapelle Sint-Cecilia Heestert wurde 1863 in der belgischen Provinz Westflandern gegründet und zählt heute rund 45 Musiker im Alter von 10 bis 80 Jahren. Das Ensemble tritt sowohl konzertant als auch im Marschformation mit Schlagzeuggruppe und Tanzteam auf und ist seit 1989 in der höchsten Leistungsstufe aktiv. Zu den Auszeichnungen gehören der Titel „Belgischer Fedekam-Meister“ (1997) und die Anerkennung als „Provinziales Auswahlensemble Westflanderns“ (2007–2011). Seit 2016 leitet Dirigent Jacob Surdiacourt das Orchester, das sich auf klassische und moderne Fanfarenmusik spezialisiert hat.

Fanfare Vrede en Eendracht is a music association based in Kachtem (Izegem, Belgium). The association was founded in 1905. Since its founding, this fanfare has experienced countless highlights – from memorable performances at local events to winning prestigious awards at music competitions. Every member, every conductor, and every musical moment has contributed to the unique identity and success of Fanfare Kachtem. We cherish our history and take pride in the strong community we have built over the years. At the same time, we look ahead to the future, remaining committed to musical excellence and connection. In addition to a drum band, the fanfare also has its own youth program – called Speelse Notenkermis, Rookies, Juniors, and Avanti – where young musicians get the chance to make music together and grow in their musical journey. In this way, we aim to introduce young people to music and encourage them to learn to play an instrument. Since the end of 2023, the orchestra has been led by Wouter Vercruysse. Dirigent | Wouter Vercruysse

Music association 'Muziekvereniging Crescendo' was found back in 1908 and is located in Voorthuizen, centre of the Netherlands. We are an enthusiastic Fanfare association with both young and more experienced players. Together, we aim to play music at a high standard, although a good atmosphere is very important too. To reach this goal we have two orchestras for the pupils who just started their music lessons, or the pupils who have already a few years of experience. With the Fanfare orchestra we go to contests on a regular base but also organise concerts and events ourselves. The orchestra is conducted by Vincent Verhage. Dirigent | Vincent Verhage

Music Association St. Willibrordus has been a vibrant part of the Esch community in North Brabant for 75 years. What began as a modest brass band has grown into a dynamic and diverse association with a rich musical program. We are known for our varied repertoire, our friendly and welcoming atmosphere, and the enthusiasm with which we organize performances and new activities. The association consists of four groups: - the second youth orchestra - the main fanfare orchestra; - the youth percussion group; - the percussion group. Each group contributes to our shared mission: achieving a high musical standard, fostering camaraderie among members, and fulfilling a valuable role within the local community of Esch. The brass band places great importance on maintaining musical quality. To continue performing at a high level, the band participates in a competition (concours) once every five years. This provides both a musical challenge and a strong incentive for growth and development. To realize our goals, we work with a clear organizational structure. An active board and several committees collaborate to ensure the smooth running of the association. In this way, St. Willibrordus remains a vital, future-oriented association—firmly rooted in tradition. Dirigent | Roger Cobben