Brussels, 22.05.2026
Starting June 1, a new team will take the helm at Brussels Philharmonic vzw. Steven Cosyns (Managing Director) and Masa Spaan (Artistic Director) are taking over from Intendant Gunther Broucke, who has led the organization for over 25 years.
I leave behind three healthy ensembles, full of ambition and ready for the next step. I am absolutely delighted that the Board of Directors, led by Chairman Luc Delrue, has decided to split the General Manager role. Appointing two strong, complementary leaders secures the path forward. I have every confidence in Masa and Steven, and look forward to following the ensembles' continued growth under their leadership.
Gunther Broucke joined the organization in 1998, when the orchestra and choir became independent from the public broadcaster. He successfully guided the ensembles through initially turbulent times, building the stability, international reputation, and local relevance they enjoy today. From the very start, he set a bold and unique course that put both the orchestra and choir on the map. Gunther was among the first to recognize the potential of film music, securing prestigious Hollywood soundtrack recordings. In 2005, he brought the musicians back to their home base at Flagey, laying the foundations for further artistic growth. He also built an extensive network of international partners and positioned the organization as a true pioneer through innovative projects.
artistic vision
Artistic Director Masa Spaan brings a wealth of experience in artistic programming, a proven track record in innovative projects, and an extensive international network. Masa studied violin at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam (Amsterdam Conservatory), followed by Musicology and Philosophy of Art and Culture at the University of Amsterdam. She also holds a Master’s degree in Music Programming from ArtEZ, where she focused on innovating concert practices. In this capacity, she worked as an independent programmer, developing innovative and interdisciplinary programming for various orchestras, choirs, concert halls, and festivals. In recent years, Masa was responsible for the artistic strategy and programming at Concertgebouw de Doelen in Rotterdam.
"What Brussels Philharmonic and the Vlaams Radiokoor do is unique; I’ve been following the ensembles from de Doelen for quite some time. Going through the selection process for the Artistic Director role only made me more excited to get started. My passion lies in meaningfully renewing concert practices. With the DNA of these ensembles, the drive of this organization, and the arrival of Steven, I’m confident we can make a real impact."
General management
Managing Director Steven Cosyns brings extensive experience at the intersection of strategy, business management, and creativity. As a Business Engineer graduated from the Solvay Business School, he gained experience at Unilever and Coca-Cola.
He went on to hold leadership positions at companies including DDB Brussels, DPG Media, and BBDO Belgium. Later, he co-founded egghunter, a strategic-creative agency where strategy, creativity, and entrepreneurship meet.
Together with Masa, Steven wants to build the Brussels Philharmonic of tomorrow: an organization that focuses not only on artistic excellence and social relevance, but also on nurturing the musicians, singers, and creators of the future.
“I have been following the orchestra and choir for many years and have always been fascinated by their unique, ambitious path. It is wonderful to now help shape that direction alongside Masa, the team, the musicians, and the singers. I feel both honored and humbled to help write the next chapter for an organization with so much potential."
