André Rieu Drummer, Marcel Felize Performs in "Lift Off"

The Musical Genes of The Falize's

Limburger 23 December 2010 by Kim Noach ~ Percussionist of the André Rieu Orchestra to perform with his sons, friends and colleagues in Heerlen.

Marcel Falize who has been playing with the André Rieu Orchestra for years, is an instructor with Edelweiss, a Horn, drum and bugle band. And recently has been directing a percussion group named "Lift-Off" which also includes his sons.

Percussionist Marcel Falize (44) has, as a member of the André Rieu Orchestra has many hours to ponder about things when once again he is en route flying from one continent to another. From an "involuntary" brain storming session, an idea for the new group "Lift-Off" evolved last year.

MARCEL: During the New Years Reception of the Hunters Horn and Trumpet Corps "Edelweiss" of this year I, together with Glenn (19) and Dean (17) performed a surprise concert which was very much appreciated. Afterwards I received many invitations to perform at various other locations. That brought me to thinking, which eventually produced "Lift-Off", and will be nurtured by the Falize family (Marcel, Glenn, Dean and youngest son Colin, who is 14), along with their Edelweiss colleague Sander Frissen. In addition, Falize also invited three colleagues from the André Rieu Orchestra, violinist Lin Jong, trombone player Ruud Merkx, and keyboard player Ward Vlasveld. Deejay Richard Holland completes the ensemble.

MARCEL: "I wanted to bring on a complete musical show embellishes in theater, light and sound." After ten months of intensive rehearsing, the gentlemen Falize and their colleagues will show what "Lift-Off" is capable of in the Heksenberg cultural center on December 27 and 28. These past weeks, the gentlemen Falize have been together almost 24 hour per day rehearsing for the two concerts. Yes, that at times can be too much, nodded the young Falizes, but overall it has been a lot of fun, says son Dean (17).

COLIN: In "Lift-Off" you can show more of your own talents then say, for instance in a large orchestra like "Edelweiss."

For the Falize sons, music comes as easy as breathing. As youngsters they have all performed with André Rieu as guest musicians. Meanwhile Glenn plays part time with Rieu (and is currently attending the conservatory in Maastricht). Dean is almost ready to attend the conservatory. And Dad Falize? "I am extremely proud of course."

Thanks to John for ©Translating and sending this to us