Composing ... 'my musical path'

Music has been the central thread running through my entire life. As a music teacher, conductor, and through more than 25 years in international music publishing, I have had the privilege of working closely with leading composers in the wind music world. I was responsible for the engraving, editing, and promotion of their works and collaborated on numerous recording projects with orchestras from both home and abroad. Those years have permanently shaped my perspective on music and composition. Over time, the desire grew to not only support the music of others but also to give shape to my own musical ideas. Since the Covid period, I have therefore dedicated myself wholeheartedly to composing.

My compositions are written for concert band (*harmonie*), *fanfare* band, and brass band—ensembles with which I have felt a connection since childhood. I strive to create music that combines artistic quality with natural expressive power: music that is expressive, colorful, and accessible, while considering both the musician and the audience. Each composition tells its own story and seeks a balance between emotion, craftsmanship, and the joy of playing.

Working from Veenhuizen—a village with a unique history and an inspiring setting—I work daily on new repertoire for wind bands. My goal is to write music that inspires orchestras, challenges musicians, and moves listeners—music that is a pleasure to both play and hear.


The Pilgrim Fathers

The Pilgrim Fathers were English Separatists who fled to Leiden to escape religious persecution. In 1620, they set sail for North America aboard the *Mayflower* and established Plymouth Colony. After a grueling first winter, they celebrated a harvest festival with the Wampanoag people—an event that later became known as the first Thanksgiving. However, this initial cooperation did not last. Tensions mounted as the English colonies expanded, eventually erupting into King Philip's War (1675–1676). This devastating conflict shattered Wampanoag power and marked a profound turning point in the history of New England. *Pilgrim Fathers* translates this history into music. Lyrical passages evoke the settlers' hopes and aspirations, while powerful rhythms and dramatic contrasts give voice to the inevitable confrontation and its tragic aftermath. Thus, the composition tells a story of faith, courage, encounter, and loss.

Grade: 4

Duration: approx. 14'30''

Available from October 2026

Verplicht werk ONFK - 4e divisie

GLORY AND SHADOWS OF TIME werd in opdracht van het ONFK 2026 geschreven. Het werk is verplicht gesteld voor de 4e divisie.f

Première

Op zaterdag 7 maart jl. klonk tijdens het voorjaarsconcert van CMV ‘Concordia’ Oldebroek de première van NOMINA IN MEMORIA.                                                               

Binnenkort verkrijgbaar

BUTTERFLIES ON GRAVE FLOWERS is een deel uit ‘Glory and Shadows of Time’, bewerkt voor Brass Band. De versies voor Fanfare en Harmonie verschijnen in het voorjaar.