Above: Bernard Verkaaik Jr, with Emil Soderstrom, circa 1950s

Bernard Verkaaik Jr was a Dutch Salvation Army brass composer who held the position of Netherlands Staff Bandmaster from 1948 to 1960. He then immigrated to the USA. Three of his compositions were published in Brass Band Journal Volume One (USA Central Territory, 1962) and one was published in the General Series in 1955 (March, Resolute Soldiers, #1410). 

However, many of his compositions have been lost. It is believed by his sons that Bernard gave several of his manuscripts to Canadian residents, and for historical purposes it is hoped that some of these could be recovered. If you have information concerning these "lost" manuscripts, please contact Steef Klepke at klepke@xs4all.nl or Kim Garreffa at 416-425-2111 x2208 (Toronto).