On Saturday, February 18, Brassband Rijnmond, led by conductor Chris Derikx, took its audience on an unforgettable journey into space.

The numerous audience in the hall of the Salvation Army in Vlaardingen were the first to be presented with a musical hymn to the planet Jupiter, symbol of faith, confidence, optimism and happiness, by composer Gustav Holst. An energetic, cheerful work and one of the best known from his seven-part orchestral suite The Planets. Presenter José van Noort then introduced the guest soloist of the evening, Rodin Rosendahl, to the audience. A euphonium player who started his career with Brassband Rijnmond as a young man and has since grown into a celebrated soloist, affiliated with the Marine Band of the Royal Netherlands Navy and as a teacher at the Conservatory of Amsterdam. Rodin performed the Concerto for Euphonium “Stratos” by Jonathan Bates in an unparalleled and spectacular way. All impressions that one could discover in the universe were presented by Rodin very beautifully and with technical ingenuity. Brassband Rijnmond will soon be recording this work with Rodin for its solo CD. In addition to the great work “Heroes” by American composer Bruce Broughton, the test piece at the 2021 British Nationals, there was also room for tranquil moments. Cornet soloist Dennis Frencken quieted the room with his very subdued rendition of the beautiful “Rusalka's Song to the Moon” by Antonin Dvorak. This piece was very popular and the soloist received a big round of applause. After the swinging film music of “The Incredibles”, the concert ended with the last parts and finale of “Music of the Spheres” by Philip Sparke. “Asteroids and shooting stars” formed the spectacular end of a fascinating, musical space journey.

Brassband Rijnmond thanks the soloists, conductor, presenter and of course her loyal supporters for a great evening and is already looking forward to Brass Connections 2024.