© 2012 MBS
APRIL UPDATE
April has seen a period of preparation for a busy schedule in May; however, we also
managed to fit in two engagements, the first of which was a surprise event to mark
our Conductor’s retirement from his ‘day-
On Friday 24th April the band travelled to Kilmore Cathedral in Co. Cavan to play at a fundraising concert. It was a first for us to play at this venue and an evening that we all certainly enjoyed.
Our annual prize giving took place on Monday 27th following our weekly rehearsal.
To start proceedings Ian Kells delivered a résumé of the previous band year highlighting
over 50 rehearsals and 30 plus events attended. It was, he added, “only with the
support and commitment of band members and families that so much could be undertaken
by the band.” Our conductor Alasdair Cooke then took the floor to announce the awards.
Following a few words surrounding each category the presentations were made:-
Best Attendance -
Best Senior -
Bandsperson of the year
-
Best Junior -
The final category was for that of Best Section in which a new Cup, which had earlier been presented by our Conductor, was awarded to the Horn section.
The evening closed with some music provided by a small band ensemble. Our thanks for a successful event must extend to all those who provided refreshments and to the ladies who toiled in the kitchen.
Best section of the year -
-
Mervyn Nelson (1st Horn) , Janine Stubbs (2nd Horn) , Chloe Armstrong (Solo Horn) , Matthew Kells (Flugelhorn) , Hannah Weir (2nd Horn) , Alasdair Cooke (Conductor)
St. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE (17TH MAR)
The 17th of March brought spring weather as we headed to Co. Cavan to assist in the
annual St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. In glorious sunshine we paraded the thronged
streets of Cavan town before heading to Coothill, an equally well-
A local Banshee takes time out to pose with Mervyn!
Ruth, Robin and Rachel in cavan before parade
VALLEY ENTERTAINMENTS CONTEST (21ST FEB)
A hectic period of rehearsal culminated in the Valley Hotel, Fivemiletown on Saturday 21st of February with the annual ‘Brass in concert’ entertainments contest. This was our first appearance in the Grade 4 section of this competition, and being drawn to play 4th out of the five entrants in this local venue meant there wasn’t the usual very early start.
A large audience was in attendance as we entered the arena to the cheers and applause of many locals who had turned out to support us. Our programme opened with the march Death or Glory followed by an arrangement of the hymn Monks Gate. Following this came a new demand on our repertoire, as a soloist’s piece was one of the requirements for this section, however, our principal euphonium player Nigel Beacom ably delivered a highly praised version of Kid Shifter.
Our final piece was to be a real crowd pleaser as we rolled back the years to perform an arrangement of YMCA. During this piece we were joined by three suitably attired dancers who interacted with the audience to produce a sea of waving arms when it came to the appropriate sections.
Having left the stage we felt satisfied with our performance and although not placed feel we certainly ran close those established Grade 4 bands.
YMCA dancers Caroline, Amanda and Robyn with conductor Alasdair.
Elaine, Stephanie, Janine and Chloe
BBL SOLOS AND QUARTETS (14TH FEB)
Saturday the 14th of February saw most of our youth players accompanied by parents and senior band members make an early start to the Annual BBL solos and quartets, held this year at the Patton Halls in Balmoral. This year the competition had attracted a record number of entries and, with the senior sections being held in the same venue, a large crowd was in attendance. There was also a first for Maguiresbridge in this competition as one of our senior members – Nigel Beacom – had entered the senior section ‘C’ Solos.
With our youth having entries in every section, a long day was to await those members who were participating in the junior band section as it was scheduled to be the last event. However, we did not have to wait long to have something to cheer about when news from the senior venue filtered across the corridor telling us that Nigel had won the ‘C’ solos. A truly wonderful reward for our principal euphonium player in his first solo competition. This set the scene for the rest of the day as all of our young performers were to taste success in the various sections.
In the 12 and under section there were a record 51 entries and Simon Hutchinson produced
a flawless rendition of ‘The last rose of Summer’ to claim a well-
The 15 and under solos followed next and again there was more success with Jayne
Moffitt claiming 3rd spot and Lauren Hutchinson the top prize. Another outstanding
result in a field of 32 entrants. The 17 and under solos were next, and in a class
of some outstanding performances, Stephanie Cooke was unlucky to finish just outside
the top three. Following this, our 17 and under ensemble claimed runners-
The final class of the day was that of junior band and with a record entry of six bands making sure there was stiff competition. Drawn second, our young musicians delivered a highly praised performance of Music Box to claim the top spot. After the cheering had died down the adjudicator for the day, Mr Barry Gordon added the icing to our many performances by awarding the Patton shield for the best performance of the day to Lauren Hutchinson.
One special word of thanks must go to Barbara McKeown our piano accompanist whose faultless playing for all our soloists complimented a great day.
Barbara is presented with her flowers by Lauren
The journey home was somewhat noisier than the morning trip with everyone upbeat
following well-
Maguiresbridge silver band juniors who took part in the BBL solos and quartets
JANUARY UPDATE
Christmas saw a hectic schedule of engagements in our local community. Early December
saw the official switching on of Maguiresbridge village lights where we played some
well-
Our thanks must go to the congregations of Maguiresbridge Methodist Church and Aghavea Parish Church for their very generous donations to band funds.
After a short holiday break, full rehearsals resumed on the 5th of January. The next few weeks will be extremely busy with preparations for the NIBA solos and ensembles on the 14th february and ‘Brass in the Valley’ entertainment contest the following week.
MAY UPDATE
During May we enjoyed attending a wide range of events in a month that saw us out on six occasions.
The first parade of the ‘marching season’ took us to Lisbellaw to support our neighbours Derryclavin Pipe band. It is always good to get back ‘on the road’ early as it helps prepare our marching discipline for the Summer ahead. The following weekend brought the annual Scout parade in Enniskillen. A large contingent of the Scouting family assembled at the Lakeland Forum before parading to St. Macartin’s Cathedral. On Tuesday of the same week two ensemble sections of the band headed to Lisnaskea High school to support their music department in a fundraising concert. The concert was themed on music from the movies with our contribution including music from ‘The Great Escape’ and ‘Finding Nemo’.
Sunday the 17th brought us back to Enniskillen where we were privileged to head a parade of the Regimental Association of the RIR to St. Macartin’s Cathedral for the dedication of a standard. During this parade we were delighted to join with the pipes and drums of the association to play the well known ‘Killaloe’ for the salute.
The next weekend brought two events with the first on Friday being cause for celebration. One of our members, Derek Nelson, tied the knot with his fiancée Jackie in Christ Church, Maguiresbridge with the band providing some music during the signing of the register. The band family wish Derek and Jackie a long and happy life together.
Two days later the band gathered again, this time at the Share Centre in Lisnaskea
where and international ‘fly-
SUMMER HAS ARRIVED!
June brought another busy month with seven engagements attended.
Our month opened on the 12th when we were privileged to play at the 90th birthday party of Johnny Dalton – one of the founder members of our band. At a social event held in the Orange Hall, family, friends and neighbours gathered to enjoy a meal and evening of fun. The band felt honoured to have been asked to part of the occasion and have agreed to return in 10 years when we will play one of the first marches learned by Johnny – Sussex by the Sea!
Sunday the 14th brought us to Enniskillen where we joined two other local bands and hundreds of Orangemen and women to parade through the town to Broadmeadow. Here, a religious service to dedicate a bannerette commemorating murdered security force members who had been members of the Loyal Orange Institution was held. It was indeed a very poignant occasion but the dedication of the bannerette – embroidered with the names of the 31 Fermanagh brethren – will ensure their sacrifice will not be forgotten.
On Saturday the 20th we made the short journey to support our neighbours in Bellisle
at their annual parade in Carry Bridge. It was a big night for our most recent recruit,
Robert Weir, who was on his first parade and our appreciation must go to both Robert
and his tutor James Cooke for all their hard work to prepare him for the marching
season. Hopefully it will be the start of a very long-
The final weekend in the month saw us out three times. On the Friday we travelled
to Lisnaskea for the annual parade and took the opportunity to form a massed band
with Lisnaskea Silver in the parade through the town. The next evening we attended
the annual Maguiresbridge district parade followed by a social gathering to help
Harold celebrate his sixty-
Sunday took us to the annual Orange service at Ballindarragh. This year it was coupled
with the re-
12TH OF JULY CELEBRATIONS
July finally arrived and all the preparations for the Annual 12th celebrations were put in place. Our month opened on Sunday 5th with the District parade and service to Maguiresbridge Presbyterian Church. Despite a threatened downpour all went well in what was good preparation for the following week.
The following Saturday we made what is now our annual visit to the 12th demonstration in Rossnowlagh, Co. Donegal. Unfortunately the weather forecast was unfavourable but as it turned out rain didn’t arrive until the homeward parade ensuring a great day was had by all. Helping to make the day especially successful were Iris Wickens and Jennifer Cooke, who, early in the morning had set off with a car packed full of food and refreshments. Upon our arrival at the ‘field’ all headed for the picnic and a couple of hours of fun and banter. The band members would like to express thanks to Iris and Jennifer for all their hard work.
With the 12th falling on a Sunday the main demonstrations this year were held on the 13th, so on Monday morning we all gathered in Maguiresbridge. Following the parade through our home village we headed for Lisbellaw where we paraded through the town to the assembly field. Once again the weathermen had predicted heavy showers but thankfully these didn’t arrive until later in the day ensuring all were able to enjoy the proceedings whilst staying dry. Our parade home was however conducted through a downpour, but our spirits weren’t dampened as we played continuously through the town to finish the day.
OUTINGS IN AUGUST
August, the last ‘Summer’ month came and went without much sign of good weather,
however, all our outings were lucky enough to miss most of the seemingly never-
The following day was the annual Church Parade of Maguiresbridge RBP to the local Methodist Church where we also led the praise by playing the hymns.
Saturday the 8th brought the Annual Co Fermanagh RBP celebrations to our home town. In fine weather large crowds gathered to partake and spectate, although band members and family had a particularly busy day helping to raise much needed funds by operating a ‘burger’ stall in the Assembly Field. It was very successful venture and our thanks go to all who assisted and supported our efforts.
The following Saturday saw dozens of Vintage Cars take to the roads in Fermanagh for the local Vintage Car Club annual weekend. Having been invited to provide music whilst the participants had lunch in Trillick (Co. Tyrone) we set up in the local sports centre where we played for just over an hour. Our selection of music was very well received by those attending and following our performance we all enjoyed lunch kindly provided by the Vintage club.
The last Saturday in August brought us to Killylea in Co Armagh for the final day of the marching season. Although cool we stayed dry for most of the day to enjoy our parade and the spectacle of some of Northern Irelands finest marching bands. Our thanks and appreciation go once again to our generous hosts Fivemiletown Link and Chain RBP 272.
Even though the busy summer period is over, Maguiresbridge will still be attending a few important events throughout the autumn. (Click here for more info.) None more so than the NIBA contest on the 31st of October in which the band will be competing in grade 4. Check back soon to see how the band’s preparations are coming along!
AUTUMN UPDATE (23RD OCTOBER)
The past few weeks have seen a hectic period of rehearsal for the forthcoming NIBA championships coupled with two local parades.
The first of these was the annual Apprentice Boys parade and service in Brookeborough on Sunday the 13th September. In pleasant late summer weather we marched the usual route to the local orange hall where the religious service was held. Following the return march refreshments were provided for all back in the hall.
Sunday the 27th September brought a first for Co.Fermanagh when Queens University LOL 1845 brought their annual parade and service to Maguiresbridge. Following the dedication of the new bannerette the parade formed up and marched to Christ Church COI. After the return parade refreshments were provided in our hall.
As was mentioned the band have been engaged in a demanding schedule of rehearsal
in preparation for the 31st of October and we are all optimistic of delivering a
fine performance on the day. Regardless of the adjudicator’s decision a great deal
has been achieved in the learning process for all our members with improvement in
individual, section and full band performances.
SUMMER ARRIVES
As we approach the annual twelfth parades we embark upon what is traditionally our busiest time. On Saturday 29th of May we travelled to Irvinestown Presbyterian Church to play for visitors to their festival of Flowers. The weather started off fine and the spectators were treated to a mix of traditional marches and concert pieces. A passing blustery shower didn’t dampen enthusiasm – although we had some ‘fun’ with the rainwater that gathered in the overhead canvas!!
On Sunday the 20th June afternoon we made our annual visit to Wattlebridge for their
open-
The weekend of the 25th and 26th June brought two evenings of marching which is certainly good preparation for the longer parades to come! On Friday we attended the Somme Commemoration parade in Lisnaskea and on Saturday paraded in our home town. The Maguiresbridge parade was preceded by the dedication of a new District Bannerette which was then proudly carried behind our band on the traditional route. The fine warm evening brought large crowds to the street to watch the dozen bands.
Congratulations to our three newest recruits – Sophie Knox, Kelly and Rebecca Beacom who joined us for their first parade.
Following the parade most band members adjourned to a local establishment to help Harold Hunter celebrate his sixty something birthday. An evening of jokes, fun and laughter followed with Mo Moore keeping us all entertained with some enlightening conversation!!
The next two weeks bring our busiest but most enjoyable period – lets hope that the recent fine weather continues.
JULY UPDATE
The Annual Twelfth celebrations and associated parades are now over and what a busy time we had!!
July opened with us turning out to support our neighbours Bellisle Flute Band at their parade in Carrybridge on Saturday the 3rd. The next evening we led the parade to Maguiresbridge Church of Ireland where LOL 1524 had their annual service.
Four days later on Thursday evening we headed to Brookborough where the local District
Lodge had organised a ‘pre-
The day started in glorious weather as we made our way to the demonstration field
with the large crowds lining the final stages of the route very receptive to our
turn-
The twelfth finally arrived and yet again we enjoyed fantastic weather as we marched through Maguiresbridge prior to the short journey to Brookborough. Unfortunately the bus that had been booked did not turn up, so we all piled into the available cars to make sure we would be there to enjoy the whole day.
The parade moved off with us well down the line, although this afforded us plenty of time to watch the dignified, colourful demonstration. Through packed streets we reached the field with just enough time to grab a quick bite prior to leading the praise in the religious service. At the end of the service the large crowd who had gathered on the hill overlooking our sitting position heard the County Grand Master –Norman Johnston – add one further item as he wished our conductor Alasdair Cooke a happy 50th birthday. Nigel Beacom then played the music as all present sang ‘happy birthday’. A truly memorable day for Alasdair.
We didn’t have long to wait before the return journey after which we headed for Maguiresbridge – almost beating the rain as the parade was dismissed outside the Orange Hall.
We now have a quiet few weeks before the next series of outings – some will say a well earned rest!!
AUTUMN UPDATE
Another marching season has come to an end and although it was fairly poor Summer
weather-
Sunday the 8th August saw us in our home town leading the Annual RBP church parade and service. After parading to the local Methodist Church we led the praise by playing the hymns before completing the return journey.
Two weeks later we were privileged to lead the Aughnacloy District RBP through Fivemiletown for their annual service. The large turnout of Sir Knights stepped out to our selection of marches down the Main Street to St. John’s Parish Church. Following the religious service we returned by the opposite route.
The following weekend the Last Saturday celebrations brought an early start as we took the the Fivemiletown Preceptory through their home town before boarding our busses to head for Loughgall, Co. Armagh. On reaching the Assembly field we were amply supplied with tea and sandwiches before taking the traditional route to the Demonstration field at the other end of the town. Large crowds lined the route making it a memorable end to the season. On return to Fivemiletown we completed the home parade before enjoying a scrumptious meal in the Church Hall. Our thanks and appreciation must go to Fivemiletown RBP for yet again looking after us so well.
The next few weeks will see us back at the rehearsal room learning a selection of new music for future events before our next parade on Remembrance Sunday.
MARCHING SEASON IS UPON US
Following a quiet April when we continued weekly rehearsals in readiness for the Summer, May heralded the start of the ‘season’ with our attendance at Derryclavin Pipe Band’s annual parade in Lisbellaw. As if by arrangement the weather was fine and a great introduction to our marching season was enjoyed.
Two days later on Sunday the 9th we were on the march again – this time at the annual Co. Fermanagh Scout and Guide church parade to St. Macartan’s Cathedral. With large crowds along the length of the route it was another good opportunity to play to appreciative spectators.
Our next outing is to play for visitors to Irvinestown Presbyterian Church flower festival on the 29th May – which will be an opportunity for us to perform various arrangements we have learned over the Winter period. Following that, as you will note from our list of forthcoming events, we will get into our stride for the numerous Summer outings.
At our usual rehearsal on Monday the 17th we stopped playing early to hold the annual
presentation of prizes and awards. After being amply supplied with supper by Sandra
Hutchinson, Linda and Janine Stubbs, Ian Kells took the floor to express his thanks
to all – with a special word for the Committee -
Our conductor, Alasdair Cooke then took the floor, and after expressing his thanks
and appreciation for the support and dedication given by all went on to announce
the remainder of the awards which were as follows:-
Best senior player – Lloyd McWilliams
Best junior player – Rachael Duncan
Bandsperson of the year – Ian Kells
Best section – Repiano, 2nd and 3rd cornets
SPRING UPDATE
Spring has finally arrived and we now look forward to our busiest time of the year. Having said that, we were kept occupied during February and March – firstly in February with the Annual BBL Solos and Quartet competitions, and then in March with the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
The solos and quartets competition held in Belfast was a long day but very worthwhile with our entrants achieving some excellent results. This competition continues to grow with the organisers almost overwhelmed with the record number of entries. A new section of 10 years and under was introduced and our two newest recruits, Rebecca and Kelly Beacom, gave excellent performances in their first ever public appearance.
With entries in every other section, our supporters and pianist (the ever reliable Barbara Mckeown ), had a hectic few hours being in the right place for each performance.
All of our entries gave excellent an account of themselves and those who were placed
are as follows:-
17 and Under Solo
3rd Ryan Kells
4th Chloe Armstrong
17 and Under Ensemble
2nd place
12 and Under Ensemble
4th place
In the senior section Nigel Beacom was our sole entry and his ever reliable performance earned him 3rd spot.
The highlight for our young performers was the junior band section and with six entries the competition was intense. With the adjudication given we were placed 3rd behind the junior bands of two championship bands – a truly creditable performance. All in all a long but successful day.
The 17th of March saw us head for Co Cavan to take part in two festival parades. The first saw us in Cavan town where, in fine Spring weather, we were applauded by the large crowds throughout the length of the route. Following this we headed for Cootehill where again the gathered spectators were very appreciative of our turnout and performance.
We now return to the rehearsal mode for the forthcoming marching and festival season which, if last years schedule is anything to go by, will be quite demanding.
James with our new recruits
JANUARY 2010
The past two months have been somewhat quieter on the engagement front but nonetheless still busy as we finished off 2009 with several Christmas engagements before entering 2010 and undertaking a selection of new music to rehearse.
On December 11th we attended a community event in Maguiresbridge Village when the Christmas lights were switched before going to the Annual District Orange Carol Service where we led the praise by playing the carols. A selection of other artists helped make the seasonal evening a success with the substantial collection being donated by the District to patient care at the Erne Hospital.
The following weekend was particularly busy with three engagements. On Friday night we went to Maguiresbridge Methodist Church for the annual carols by candlelight service while on Sunday we led the praise in Aghavea Parish Church in the traditional service of nine lessons and carols. Both congregations made generous contributions to our band funds which are greatly appreciated.
On Saturday, In between our two carol services, an ensemble of the band took up an invitation to travel to Ballinamallard to assist Roulston’s Foodstore in their efforts to raise money for Action Cancer. In traditional fashion we played a selection of carols in the shop while customers availed of hot drinks and mince pies. We were pleased to be able to attend and help to raise just over £400 for a very worthy cause.
Monday brought our final practise of 2009. In a fairly relaxed atmosphere we played
some music before a surprise guest in a red suit and white beard made an entrance!
With band practise suspended we all enjoyed the fun and games and availed of refreshments
ably prepared by our ever-
With Christmas festivities over for another year we returned to practise on the 4th of January aware of a hectic period of rehearsal and preparation for two annual competitions in February – BBL Solos and quartets on the 13th and the valley Entertainments contest on the 20th.
James with our new recruits
CHRISTMAS NEWS
Well the busy Christmas season from a playing perspective has come to an end with our final performance in Enniskillen town centre on Tuesday 22nd December. And what an evening it was!!! With thermometers reading minus 12 degrees we took up our position on the bandstand only to find the valves in some of the instruments were freezing solid. A supply of warm water from a nearby hostelry followed by continuous playing ensured the instruments mostly remained playable – although the tuning was something else!!
December began with a supper dance run by the band in Enniskillen Unionist Hall. Although there were some last minute doubts regarding whether it should go ahead due to the snow and frost we pressed on and were rewarded with a great evening and appreciative audience. The night started with supper followed by a 40 minute performance by the band and concluded with a draw and dance. The program delivered by the band was well received and included a mix of pieces to satisfy all tastes. Our final piece – Hits of the 90’s – was especially appreciated by all present.
Thanks from the band to all who helped organise and facilitate the evening with special thanks to the many who braved the elements to support our event.
One special word of thanks to Ian Kells and Andrew Knox who, during the evening,
had organised a sale of t-
The following weekend saw three outings with the first being the switching on of the Christmas Lights in Maguiresbridge followed by the annual District LOL Carol Service. Both events were well supported by community.
On Sunday 12th we attended a praise service organised by Irvinestown Presbyterian Church. The evening incorporated a mix of traditional hymns and Christmas carols with the large congregation enjoying the music and praise.
The next weekend again saw two planned outings but the arrival of sub-
The next night brought our final rehearsal of the year and, in what has become an annual tradition, Santa Claus made a visit to deliver presents to our younger members. There followed tea, sandwiches, cake, fun and banter to finish off the evening.
As mentioned earlier we all gathered for the final outing of 2010 at The Diamond in Enniskillen suitably clothed and as prepared as we could be. It was indeed an evening to remember and a unique way to end another successful year for the band.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our supporting families and friends and will all a Happy Christmas and prosperous, healthy, musical new year.
SPRING 2011
Rehearsals resumed early in January with two competitions to focus on in February. The annual BBL solos and quartets competition took place on the 12th of February with the Valley entertainment contest two weeks later. With membership of our senior band also comprising the majority of our youth players it was a very busy period to be ready for both days.
With the BBL solos attracting record entries an early start and long day awaited
those partaking. The long day, however, proved very successful with some creditable
performances and excellent results. Congratulations go to all our entrants with especial
mention of Rebecca Beacom who was 3rd in a large entry in the 10 and under and Ryan
Kells who was runner-
With no time off following the solos we got straight into final preparations for
the Valley contest. Having been drawn second in our section we gathered early on
Saturday morning in Fivemiletown for pre-
With the contest being judged both on entertainment and musical performance we had prepared a varied programme to appeal to both judges.
Following our opening piece ‘Prelude on Finlandia’ we delivered a range of other
pieces which included the march ‘Our Director’, a solo on Euphonium from Ryan Kells
and finished with a section of Jan Van Kraeydonck’s ‘super Hits of the 90’s’. It
was our final piece –‘Macarena’-
Following the conclusion of our section there was much praise from many quarters for our overall performance and when the results were announced that evening we were rewarded with second place and the prize for ‘Best march’. It was a deserved conclusion to a busy period of preparation.
The next period brings another round of public engagements and performances the first of which is only a couple of weeks away.
MARCHING SEASON BEGINS
Early may saw a busy introduction to the marching season with two outings over the
first weekend. On the Friday night we travelled the short distance over to Lisbellaw
where our friends in Derryclavin Pipe Band were holding their annual parade. It
was good to get out marching again and the fifteen or so bands who attended enjoyed
a dry evening and appreciative spectators. On the Sunday afternoon we attended the
annual Scout and Guide Association parade in Enniskillen. Again large crowds lined
the streets on the one-
With no more scheduled outings till June we have been busy rehearsing and making preparations for the many engagements planned. As part of the planning for our first ever parade in Belfast we recently hosted representatives from the Whiterock District where arrangements were finalised for what should be a great day.
To see a full list of our upcoming events click here.
AUTUMN UPDATE
Now that most of the parades are finished for the year, we can reflect on what a busy time it was for the band!
On the first weekend in June we had the pleasure of leading the worship in our own Hall at the dedication of a new banner for the Lodge. This was followed by a parade of District Bands through the town and then a very successful BBQ.
The following weekend we travelled across the county to Ballinamallard where the
local Accordion Band were hosting their annual parade. This well attended parade
would turn out to be good preparation for our much anticipated visit to the Whiterock
parade in Belfast. The following weekend we made our own annual visit to Wattlebridge
where we led the praise in the open-
The following Saturday morning we gathered in Maguiresbridge and set off for our first ever parade in Belfast. This day out came as a result of an invitation by the Whiterock District LOL some months earlier to head their annual parade. On arrival we were treated to light refreshments before participating (unexpectedly!) in their commemoration service. Following this we formed up outside the hall on the Shankill Road and amid enormous crowds moved off on the estimated five mile route. With the weather very warm and bright we soon felt the pressure of the conditions but spontaneous applause and appreciation all along the route kept us in good playing spirits. On the final leg back up the Shankill Road the thronging crowds again made this a day to remember. Following dismissal of the parade we were treated to a hot meal followed by some formalities recounting the day. All in all a very successful day and perhaps one to be repeated at some time in the future. Our thanks must surely go to those District Officers from Whiterock who put so much time and effort into making our day out so enjoyable.
A series of local parades took place over the next couple of weeks which included Ballindarragh, Lisnaskea, Carrybridge, and a Sunday afternoon performance at the Round ‘O’ in Enniskillen.
The twelfth weekend was of course hectic with a fantastic day out at Rossnowlagh on Saturday followed by the District Orange parade in Maguiresbridge on Sunday.
On Tuesday we headed to Lisnaskea for the 12th demonstration and again in glorious weather had a day to remember. It concluded with parading our home town followed by a social gathering in the local ‘watering hole’. Apart from the usual stories and craic there were also some impromptu musical performances which may have set a precedent for future years!!
July concluded with our attendance at the annual Defenders of the Rock parade in Lisbellaw. In a parade boasting some 46 bands we were delighted to receive the prize for the ‘most entertaining band’ which was jointly awarded to Derryclavin Pipe Band following our amalgamation in the latter part of the parade when we played Scotland the Brave, The Rowan Tree and Killaloe to the delight of the hundreds of spectators.
Our only function in august saw us travel to Ballygawley for the annual Last Saturday celebrations. Despite the Lunchtime showers of rain, it was a superb day for marching, as the weather brightened up in the afternoon. As is always the case, we returned to Fivemiletown in the evening for the closing parade, followed by dinner with our host lodge.
Looking forward to the next couple of months, the band will be taking advantage of a relatively quiet period to rehearse some new music and indeed recruit some new members, both young and old! If you’re reading this and think you’d like to give brass banding a go, or if you know somebody else who’s interested, why not come along to band practice on a Monday evening from half 7. We’d make you very welcome! Practice takes place in Maguiresbridge Orange Hall on the main street.
