On Saturday, July 20th, the Moyne National School Band participated in the junior miscellaneous competition at the Munster Fleadh in Thurles. Their success ensured they qualify for the All-Ireland Fleadh, scheduled for August 11th in Wexford Town.
Founded in the 1950s by Principal Christy Shortt, the Moyne National School Band has a rich history and continues to thrive with children from 4th to 6th class. These young musicians play a variety of instruments, including whistles, accordions, xylophones, drums, and, for the first time this year, trumpets. The band members proudly wear uniforms made by parents in the 1980s and still use the original big bass drum from the 1950s.
The school marching band is a staple at various events, such as confirmations, Christmas Eve Mass, school celebrations, and parish occasions. This year, they earned a special award and €100 at the Thurles St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Mr. Tom Gleeson from the Parade Committee presented the plaque to the band, marking a proud moment for all involved.
A highlight of the year was the new banner designed and created by Etta Dunne for the band in March. This beautiful gift is a testament to the community’s support and the band’s enduring legacy, promising to be a cherished symbol for many years to come.
Moyne band are the second band to qualify at provincial level for the All Ireland Fleadh joining the below Senior and Pipe band champions from 2023:
Senior Flute:
- Maghery Fife and Drum Band, Donegal
Senior Accordion
- K and S Accordion Band, Meath
Pipe Band
- Clonoe Independent Pipe Band, Tyrone
Senior Miscellaneous
- Cloughaneely Senior Band, Donegal
Junior Miscellaneous
- St Kevin’s Marching Band, Ferns
- Moyne National School Band
The only remaining qualification competition is the Ulster Fleadh were 2 pipe bands will compete, 1 band in Senior accordion and 1 band in the Junior Miscellaneous. A full preview will be released later this week.