Francis Bay

Belgian trombonist and band leader, born in 1914 in Rijkevorsel, died April 25, 2005 in Bonheiden. Played in various big bands and entertainment orchestras in Belgium and the Netherlands before joining Belgian radio and television as an arranger and conductor in 1956. Was the musical director of the Knokke Song Festival for many years, while also being involved in the Eurovision Song Contest as the conductor for nine Belgian entries between 1959 and 1979. Retired from BRT Television in 1980.