A MUSICAL tribute is to be paid to the late West Somerset artist and musician Alexander Hollweg during an ongoing retrospective exhibition ‘Journeys in Art’ in the Museum of Somerset, Taunton.

An exhibition of Hollweg’s paintings and sculpture from across the six decades of his career is being held in the museum until March 9.

It is the first retrospective and the largest ever show of the work of Hollweg, who painted for many years from the Nettlecombe estate where he lived.

Less well-known is the fact that he played with the West Somerset Brass Band for many years.

Now, the band is to perform at the exhibition on Saturday, March 2, between 2 pm and 3 pm, playing some of the music he arranged.

Hollweg joined the band in about 1980 and quickly became a key member, not only for his instrumental skills but also for his enthusiasm in arranging pieces.

Friend and bandmate Pete Owen said: “Alex was not just a remarkable artist, but also a talented and respected musician.

“He found great joy in playing various types of music, particularly jazz, and cherished his time with us at West Somerset Brass Band.”

One of the highlights of the tribute will be a performance of ‘Chantons en Choeur’, a piece arranged by Hollweg for the band’s St Renan, Brittany, twinning friends.

The composition incorporated many French folk songs and holds a special place in the band’s repertoire, serving as a fitting tribute to Hollweg’s musical prowess and his fluency in French, which proved invaluable during tours in France.

Hollweg also played a significant role in teaching young players and his family later presented the band with his baby Eb marching bass, giving hope for somebody else to follow in his footsteps.

At his 2020 funeral, the band paid final respects by playing music he arranged, honouring his legacy with the melodies he crafted.

Above all, band members fondly remembered his infectious smile, warm personality, and humour, which made him a popular compere during the 1980s and 1990s and on many French trips, traits which endeared him to all.