As a composer he became the leading Flemish impressionist, with the symphonic poem Pallieter (1921-1924).
He first composed in an impressionist style, later expressionist, and finally neo-classical.
Peter Benoit was his great model, but he adapted Benoit's principles and gave Flemish music a modern mode of expression and a contemporary face.
He wrote above all for the symphony orchestra, but he also wrote incidental music, an opera, many Flemish songs, chamber music and work for brass bands and wind ensembles.
Notable students include the two composers, Denise Tolkowsky and Ernest Schuyten.