20 Years On: Mayobridge Claim Their Sixth All Ireland Title in 2006

Twenty years ago, Mayobridge returned to the All Ireland Fleadh as one of the most successful accordion bands in the history of the competition.

And in 2006, they added another title to that impressive record.

Mayobridge were crowned All Ireland Senior Accordion champions, defeating St Brigid’s Accordion Band from Jonesborough, with Fanad taking third place. It was the sixth Senior Accordion title for the County Down band, following previous victories in 1984, 1999, 2000, 2001 and 2003.

The 2006 victory was particularly significant given the standard of competition around them. St Brigid’s had won the title the previous year and would go on to enjoy a highly successful period in the section over the following seasons.

Mayobridge remained firmly among the leading bands in the years that followed. In 2007, they finished second behind St Brigid’s, with Fanad taking third place. The following year, St Brigid’s retained the title, while Mayobridge continued to build on their proud record. In 2009, they returned to the All Ireland once again, finishing second behind St Brigid’s, with Holy Cross in third place.

Their 2009 appearance marked the end of Mayobridge’s most recent competitive Fleadh chapter in the Senior Accordion section. They finished that period with six All Ireland titles and a remarkable record stretching back more than two decades.

Since then, Mayobridge has continued to play a prominent role as a marching band, bringing their music and performances to audiences far beyond the Fleadh competitions. The band has taken part in the Rose of Tralee parade’s annually, led the London St Patrick’s Day parade and performed at Ulster GAA games in front of thousands of spectators, both in person and on television.

They have also remained an important part of their local community through their participation in local parades and events.

Twenty years on, the 2006 victory remains the final All Ireland title won by Mayobridge — and the sixth title in a record that places them joint second on the all-time Senior Accordion list. It remains one of the defining achievements in the history of a band which continues to perform, represent its community and bring marching-band music to audiences across Ireland and beyond.

2006 All Ireland Fleadh – Senior Accordion

🥇 Mayobridge Accordion Band, Down
🥈 St Brigid’s Accordion Band, Jonesborough, Armagh
🥉 Fanad Accordion Band, Donegal