Bart Van Beneden bridges two musical worlds: the precision and poetry of the saxophone, and the broader vision and leadership of the conductor’s podium. As both performer and leader, he brings a warm stage presence, stylistic versatility, and an ever-curious artistic mind.

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Trained as a saxophonist at the Royal Conservatory of Brussels with Norbert Nozy, Bart refined his playing through regular work with leading European saxophonists such as Vincent David, Arno Bornkamp, Miha Rogina and Simon Diricq. His love of the orchestra and orchestral repertoire naturally led him to study orchestral conducting with Robin Engelen at the Conservatoire Royal de Bruxelles, alongside masterclasses with Jorma Panula and Mark Laycock.

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In 2025, Bart was appointed chief conductor of the University Symphony Orchestra (USO) Leuven, following in the footsteps of Edmond Saveniers. He also leads the Kortrijks Symfonisch Orkest, and has conducted ensembles including the South Danish Philharmonic Orchestra, Berliner Sinfonietta, and contemporary opera productions with Ars Musica. His conducting has been recognized through selections at international competitions such as:

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• Final 12/176 – Nino Rota Conducting Competition (2018)

• Final 7/84 – Assistant Conducting Competition, Philharmonie Royal de Liège

• Selected participant – Nordic Masterclass 2021 with Jorma Panula & South Danish Philharmonic

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As a saxophonist, Bart won 1st prize at the World Music International Soloist Competition (Kerkrade) and 3rd prize at the Golden Saxophone Competition (Odessa). He performed the Glazunov and Larsson concerti and regularly plays recitals with pianist David Van Looveren. He co-founded acclaimed saxophone quartets such as Scarbo and the Anemos Saxophone Quartet, winning national and European chamber music prizes and performing at major festivals and on Belgian radio.

 

Bart teaches saxophone and ensemble at the Conservatoire Royal de Liège, where his open, energetic and reflective teaching style is highly appreciated by students. He is also a dedicated arranger, with works performed by ensembles such as the Belgian Navy Band, Military Band of Luxembourg, and Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra.

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