Latest News updated 16/12/2013
150 musicians perform on Bohemian Centre stage

150 musicians, all members of Ardee Concert Band, performed to a packed house at our 32nd Annual Christmas Concert. For many Ardonians our Annual Christmas Concert marks the start of their Christmas festivities and is a yearly Christmas tradition for many people of the town. There were four different ensembles performing. The night was opened with our Senior Band who performed 4 numbers, followed by the 44 strong recorder group who played The Good Old Duke of York , this was followed by Jingle Bells conducted by Sarah Clare and Darren Kirk.

This was followed by our Junior Band, which currently has 21 members and is conducted by Kevin Reilly. The Interlude between Bands saw the formation of The Bohemian Saxophone Quartet who made their Bohemian Centre Debut on the night to their biggest Audience yet. The group is made up of four senior band members: Darren Kirk, Martin Meegan, Seán O’ Brien and Robert Finegan. The first half ended with the Youth Band with a very upbeat and modern programme getting the Audience in the Groove! The Youth Band was conducted by John Gaynor and are going from Strength to Strength after their National and North of Ireland Band Championship successes in both competitions this year.

The second half opened impressively with our Award winning Senior Band. The concert was very entertaining with lots of audience participation and singing for all in the packed out 400-seater Auditorium. Brendan Breslin held the baton for the Senior Band and the MC for the night was band treasurer Peter McKeever. The Evening was finished with a percussion solo finale in “Sing Sing Sing” from the best Percussion Section in Ireland for two years in a Row. This Piece was also arranged by one of our percussionists; Paul O’Brien. All in all it was a Huge success and a fantastic night had by all members and audience a like, with everyone still buzzing from the Evening.

Other Activities over Christmas

Our Bingo Jackpot for Sunday 22nd will be €1,900 along with our Winner Takes All and Play your cards games also being played on the night from 8pm in the Bohemian Centre, Ardee. There will be NO Bingo on Sunday 29th 2013, It will Resume on Sunday 5th January 2014 from 8pm.

The band will perform at the Ardee Parish Carol Service on Sunday 22nd at 7pm and at 12.30pm Mass on Christmas day. They will also be performing carols on the street on Christmas Eve in Ardee throughout the day and in Moorehall Lodge in the Afternoon for the residents.

The band members would like to wish all the members their families, all band supporters and Bingo goers a very healthy holy and happy Christmas and a prosperous new Year for 2014.

Latest News updated 11/12/2013

Biggest Concert Ever for Ardee Concert Band.

This will be the 32nd Annual Concert where our four different musical groups from within the band will be showcasing on the Night. On the night we will have 150 members performing at the Annual Christmas Concert, This is a fantastic achievement for us as it is one of our biggest Audiences for the year, and what makes it even more special is that it will all take place at our home in the Bohemian Centre, on December 13^th 2013 from 8pm Sharp.

The Senior Band will again start the night off and they will be followed by the forty-eight strong Recorder Group. This group consists of those young students who have only been learning music since September and those from last year’s class. These very young performers will be conducted in turn by their tutors Sarah Clare and Darren Kirk. Sarah and Darren are no Strangers to the Bohemian Stage, as this is their second year holding the baton for the Recorder group as well as playing in the Senior Band.

The third segment will be a performance by our Junior Band conducted by Kevin Reilly and they will be followed by the Award Winning Youth Band conducted by John Gaynor. All of the segments will include some seasonal music. After the interval, our audience will see the return of our senior band for the second half.

Tickets are available from all Band members and admission will also be available on the night at the door.

Bohemian Centre Activity

Other upcoming events for the season in the Bohemian Centre are The Ardee Credit Union AGM on December 16^thand Dance Mania School of Dance will hold their Christmas Showcase in the centre on Dec 23rd from 7 pm and all proceeds raised on the night are in aid of Temple Street Children’s Hospital.

Bingo

The bands weekly Sunday night bingo will continue this Sunday and there will be extra cash given away in December for Christmas.

Busy Christmas Season Ahead!

The band will take part in the Christmas Carol Service in the Church on Sunday 22nd of December and many Band members will also perform Christmas carols on the street on Christmas Eve Morning and Afternoon and in Moorehall Lodge on Christmas Eve afternoon. We will also be playing 12.30pm Mass in Ardee as is the Tradition for may years.

Latest news updated 17/11/2013

Ardee Concert Youth Band Play in City of Culture Event

On Saturday 9th November 2013, at the Waterside Theatre in Londonderry, Our youth band joined the Britannia Concert Junior Band and a number of young groups in playing and singing a wide variety of musical styles and instruments, all keen to showcase their new skills and love of music.

The full bus load of supporters and parents, including our 38 strong youth band travelled to Derry on Saturday afternoon. The trip wouldn’t have been the same without the traditional McDonalds on the way before heading off to the Waterside Theatre for a rehearsal of the 2 joint pieces that all 4 groups would play/sing together.

The other acts from across the city of Derry, The city of Culture for 2013, who took to the stage on the night, included the LMS Youth Group, a newly formed group of talented 12 – 15 year old youngsters who sang, danced and acted out a medley from “Bugsy Malone”.

Also joining in on the fun were the Culmore P.S. Djembe Drumming Group and the Castlefinn Drumming group, combining forces and performed a number of African dances

The Concert commenced at 7.45pm to a full house by Britannia Concert Junior Band, then the LMS Youth Group, the Culmore P.S. Djembe and the Castlefinn Drumming groups and finally Ardee Concert Youth Band. ACYB played their upbeat and modern programme, including Pirates of the Caribbean – At worlds End, Game of Thrones, Edge of Glory and Uprising by Muse.

After a short break, all 5 acts came back on stage to perform 2 pieces together. Many Thanks are sent to Britannia Concert Band and to Martyn Goodman, Chairman of BCB, for the invite and the kind words during his speech on the night. It was a Great night experienced by all and a night that will be remembered for many years to come.

Videos of a couple of Our Youth Bands Performances can be found on our Facebook Page along with one of the Joint Pieces performed by all 5 Groups.

Joint Concert with Balbriggan Brass and Reed Band

On a Rainy Sunday Evening last, Nov 10th 2013, the place to be was The Bracken Court Hotel in Balbriggan. In the warmth of the fabulous function room, Three of Ireland’s Eastern Bands, Ardee Concert Band, St James Brass and Reed Band and St Patrick’s Brass and Reed Band all came together to play for Balbriggans Annual Gala Fundraising Concert for the local Senior Citizens Group in Balbriggan.

The night was a Huge success from Start to Finish with St. James band taking to the stage first, entertaining the Large Audience with a varied programme from Ireland to Spain via America. Ardee where next to take to the platform and kick-started their programme into step with a March. We then played to the masses with pieces ranging from a New Zealand Lullaby to the Soul Era with a hint of Irish luck in the middle. Our Hosts where the last Band for the first half and Balbriggan gave a very entertaining programme for lovers of Neil Diamond and Whitney Houston

For the second half of the Concert a mass band performance made up of over 80 members from Balbriggan and Ardee, played 4 pieces: March: Aces High, The Great Escape, Young Amadeus and an old Band Favourite “Hootenanny” to top of the night.
“It is through concerts like these that help bring musicians of all standards together and build relationships between band members from all corners of the country to make concerts like these more regular, & that in turn will result in getting music the attention and interest it truly well deserves”, said Pro Sinéad Nutley.

BINGO

This Weeks Sunday Night Bingo Jackpot as reached €6,600. Be early to get your seat, Bingo starts at 8pm sharp. Winner takes all and Play your Cards Right Games are played every Sunday night.

Concert

Our Annual Christmas Concert will take place on Friday, December 13th from 8p.m Sharp. Tickets will be available from all Band Members Shortly, Priced at €10 / Adult and Children €7 payable at the Door.

Latest News updated 14^th October 2013

GREAT Success at Band Championships …. ARDEE WIN ALL THE STAKES FOR 2013
On Saturday October 12th 2013 the Ardee Concert Youth and Senior Bands, and many supporters all took to the roads to travel to the North of Ireland Band Championships in the prestigious Market Place Theatre, Armagh. Both Bands took all the prizes home that were on offer on the day. The Senior Band took 1st place in the Championship Section and the Youth Band Took first place in Section 4. These wins Place Ardee Concert Band at the Pinnicle of Banding in Ireland.
The 35 strong Youth Band mostly ranging in age from eleven to fourteen years old travelled to Armagh city with conductor John Gaynor accompanied by some parents and family to perform in and take the Title in the 4th Grade Concert Band section. They played an own choice selection of two pieces “The Piper of Brafferton” composed by Fergal Carroll and “Game of Thrones” Composed by Camin Djawadi and arranged by Michael Brown, Producing “A Great Sound and Colour” as was said by the Adjudicator Mr. Richard Evans. This was the first ever competition for the 14 new members who joined the Youth Band over the summer months and they have done the Band, their families and themselves most of all very proud. It’s a great achievement to be able to go up and play music of such a high standard. “They gave a great performance and we are all very proud of them. They enjoyed their day out in Armagh and they performed brilliantly, they were great ambassadors for the band and the town”, Sinéad Nutley, Band PRO.
The Senior Band were next to take to the Stage under their Conductor Brendan Breslin, where their 46 members competed in the Championship section for Concert Bands. They played two Pieces of Own Choice for the days Adjudicator Mr Richard Evans. Their programme included The Incredibles arranged by Takashi Hoshide and MacArthur Park arranged by Philip Sparke, which were remarked as being very Confident and Most Enjoyable by the days Adjudicator. Both Pieces can be viewed on YouTube or through the Bands Facebook Page. This was the first competition of this level for 4 members who recently joined the Senior Band just before the Summer. This is a huge achievement for them and a lot of hard work has paid off, They should be proud of themselves for what has been a big milestone in their banding journey.
“This Win closes our year on a Musical high as we add two more trophies to our already filled Trophy Cabinet from earlier 1st Place wins this year in Limerick and in Clonakilty.” said Sinéad Nutley, Band PRO.
New Recorder Group
Last Tues October 8th saw 24 new boys and girls join the Ardee Concert Band Recorder Group. No time was wasted and after a quick introduction and few Household chores, the classes where soon under way with Sarah Clare and Darren Kirk at the helm. Sarah and Darren are no strangers to teaching the recorder as they are in their second year teaching the groups and both are members of the award winning Senior Band. They are now working towards their first performance at the Bands annual Christmas Concert in 9 weeks time, “Which will be no bother to them all”, Said Kevin Reilly to the Parents in his Introduction to the Group last Tues.

Halloween Spooktacular Party
All our young members are looking forward to their Halloween Spooktacular Party which promises to be spooktacularly good and to be bigger and better than last year according to organisers Sinéad Nutley and Aisling Reilly. This will take place at 7pm on Sat 26th October and is for members of Ardee Concert Band only.

November Joint Concert
On Sunday 10th Nov the Band have been invited to play a Joint Concert with St Patrick’s Brass & Reed Band, Ballbriggan and St. James Brass & Reed band, Dublin in The Bracken Court Hotel in Balbriggan, Co. Dublin from 7.30pm Sharp.

Bingo
Bingo goers were surprised to see the hall transformed into its Halloween glory in preparation for the season. Bingo continues every Sunday at 8pm in the Bohemian Centre with lots of prizes including our winner Takes all Games, Last weeks Jackpot for this game was €820 all welcome. Early Arrival is advised as our Jackpot Rollover of €6,200 for next week has brought HUGE crowds to our doors.

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY: Annual Christmas Concert
The Ardee Concert Band will hold their 32nd Annual Concert on Friday December 13th from 8pm Sharp.

Latest News updated 10/10/2013

Halloween Spooktacular Party

All our young members are looking forward to their Halloween Spooktacular Party which promises to be spooktacularly good according to organisers Sinead Nutley and Aisling Reilly. This will take place at 7pm on Sat 26^th October and is for members of Ardee Concert Band only.

NIBA, ARMAGH

Two Buses will leave for The Market Place Theatre, Armagh on Sat Oct 12th at 11am with 80 musicians and supporters. Our Youth Band are due to play at Approx 2.00pm in Section 4 and the Senior Band will take to the Stage at Approx 2.30pm for the Championship Concert Section.

NIBA WORKSHOP: The Ardee Concert Band are busy rehearsing in the Bandrooms of the Bohemian Centre for their entry into the North of Ireland Band Championships in the Market Place Theatre, Armagh on Sat Oct 12th. Their effort is outstanding, rehearsing twice a week for 2 hrs each night under the Baton of their conductor Brendan Breslin. They have even gone as far as having an Intense rehearsal workshop weekend; working on bringing their pieces to championship standard! This rehearsal took place on Fri and Sat last from 8-10.30pm on Friday and from 10 – 2.30pm on Saturday.
“A sense of confidence is continuing to build on the award winning platform that is already in place with the members from the previous Victories this year; and this weekend has only added to this foundation. Everyone is looking forward to the Adrenalin filled day on Oct 12th in Armagh”, Said Sinead Nutley, PRO.

Our Youth Band are also very busy practising for their entry into Section 4 of the NIBA in Armagh on the same day. This will be the first Competition for many new members of the band since their transition from the Junior band into the Youth band back in the summer months. “We wish them all the best on their big day on one of the biggest days of the Banding world”, Said PRO Sinead Nutley.

Latest News updated 10/09/2013

GATHERING OF THE GALES
The Ardee Concert Band took part in the Gathering of the Gales Festival on Saturday September 7^th in The Alley Theatre, Strabane, Co. Derry. The Festival which gathered Brass and Wind Bands from all over the Island, took place over the two days of September 6th and 7th. The opening Ceremony of the festival took place on Friday evening commencing with a Historical march departing from Lifford Courthouse, Co. Donegal to The Alley Theatre in Strabane Town Centre. The 40 minute march of the Gales brought towns to a complete standstill while passers-by where treated to music by the massed bands. After the Opening Ceremony speeches had taken place, Come and Play workshop ensemble commenced their Performance under the Baton of Brendan Breslin. The Evening was finished off with a performance from Mickey Harte singing his new single, “Come Gather All”.
On Saturday, the main events took place in The Alley Theatre, as all outdoor events where moved indoors due to the inclement weather. Many bands from both sides of the border took part in the event which was held throughout the day with each band taking a 30 minute time slot to play and delight the masses that came to enjoy the day. The Band and their supporters arrived in good time to hear the other participants of the day and join in on the excitement and with such a great and enthusiastic atmosphere from the Audience, it made the day even more enjoyable. The other Bands who took part on the day where: The Lourdes Brass Band, Dublin Concert Band, St. Eugenes Band, Omagh, Britannia Concert Band, Downshire and Letterbreen Brass Bands.
Ardee under their conductor, Mr. Brendan Breslin, took to the stage at 6.45pm to finish off the day’s proceedings for the cross community event, starting their programme with a Non-Typical Style March, St. Louis Blues March, followed by the Legends of Soul, a Trumpet Solo Piece entitled Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy, Puttin’ on the Ritz and the Theme from Austin Powers; Soul Bossa Nova to name but a few. This is the first event of its kind in Ireland and is totally unique in its nature to the Isle. Ardee is very hopeful in a second festival next year and hopefully the sun will make an appearance and all the music can be brought outside for many more people to enjoy the music of the festival. Everyone involved had a great and enjoyable day of banding; playing, listening to the other performances throughout the day as well as meeting old and new friends as the day went by at “Gale-force” Speed.
Church Gate Collection

The committees and members would like to thank all who gave to their recent Church Gate Collection on Saturday and Sunday, 14th and 15th of September at all masses in Ardee and Ballapusta. This is one of the main sources of income for the band other than the weekly Sunday night Bingo in the Bohemian Centre. The Band receives great support from the people of the town and surrounding areas says Sinéad Nutley PRO and we really appreciate this support.

Latest News updated 10/08/2013

PROMS IN THE PARK

On Sunday Aug 4th, the three Bands of Ardee Concert Band took to the Bandstand as part of their Proms in the Park Recital for the Turfman Festival in the Sun-Filled Farigreen Park, Ardee from 2-5p.m. The band was delighted to play to the huge crowd who adorned the park for the afternoon. The crowd didn’t hold back, they got into the Summer spirit and joined in with the bands whenever they got the chance.

The Junior Band kick-started proceedings under the baton of Kevin Reilly. Playing a range of pieces including Regal March and Meet The Flintstones, the band made everyone proud; the Committee, Mammys, Daddys and the public alike as they played their second performance of the year to their biggest Audience yet.

The Intermediate Band under John Gaynor were next to the stage for the Proms. They played a very modern and upbeat programme which included pieces by MUSE, Lady Gaga, and music from Pirates of the Caribbean
The Band where joined by 14 new players, who recently joined from the Junior Band earlier this year. This was their first Performance with the Intermediate Band and everyone played extremely well!
With all these young players coming up through ranks of the band, along with the other members receiving Tuition and another intake of Membership due to take place in September, Banding is very much safe and alive in Ardee Concert Band and the North-East Region.

The Ardee Concert Band under their conductor Brendan Breslin finished off the Recital with their wide and varied styles of entertainment pieces. The Pieces included Finnegan’s Wake, March: Death or Glory, Lord of the Dance, Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy featuring the Bands Trumpet section as well as the pieces that won the band their 1st place trophy last month in the South of Ireland Band Championships in Clonakilty, Co. Cork.

This was the first performance with the Senior Band for Deirdre Walsh, Brendan Leacy, Aoife O’ Malley and Saidhbh O’Brien. They had recently joined the senior band from the intermediate band only 4 weeks ago.

Alongside the recital, the Band ran a HB Ice-Cream Fun day in aid of Down Syndrome Ireland on the day as well. The stall which sat by the band stand was filled with plenty of goodies. There were Buns, Muffins, Rice-Kripie Buns and Popcorn and of course plenty of Ice-cream up for sale. The Band were delighted to have CEO of Down Syndrome Ireland Pat Clarke and his son David, call in for a chat and an Ice cream, with PRO and Main Organiser Sinead Nutley on the day. “We would like to take this opportunity to thank everybody who donated cakes and buns towards the day, all the businesses who sponsored the event in any way and finally to all who bought the treats for a donation, Raising €700 in total for this worthy Cause”, Said PRO Sinead Nutley.

Latest News Updated 29/06/2013

Ardee Band pull out all the stops

The Senior Band are very busy at the minute, Putting their final touches to get their entertaining programme for the 34th Annual South of Ireland Band Championships on Sat 6th July in Clonakilty, Co. Cork.

They will pull off for the West cork town with Entourage, instruments, music and Party pieces in tow on Friday from the Band room of the Bohemian Centre at 11 am. When the Band arrive in Clonakilty it will be a quick change and freshen up before they head up the town to perform a street recital at 6p.m to get in the groove of the weekends banding spectacular.

On Saturday, July 6th, 25 Brass and Concert Bands will descend on the Small quaint town for the entertainment competition where its not just the music that is judged. The adjudicator allows for Presentation and Programme choice aswell as many other factors. “This is always a very enjoyable and different competition to our Annual participation in the National Competitions, but its a very good different”, Said Pro Sinéad Nutley. Last year the Band took home 2nd place aswell as the coveted price of Best Percussion Section, and were also thrilled with how their programme went down with the audience and the adjudicator, of course.

Dr Evelyn Grant will adjudicate the Junior category before Renowned musician, arranger and adjudicator, Alan Fernie from Scotland, on his first visit to the town, will adjudicate the intermediate and senior section, where the Band are entered and the Ardee band will be the 3rd band playing in the senior section. The musical feast will take place in conjunction with the revived Old Time Fair. The competitions will be held in the Community College and Hall, and recitals at various venues around the town, together with all the fun of the fair will be a huge attraction to the many visitors that the competitions pull into the picturesque town of West Cork.

All the weekends news can be followed on the Bands Facebook page by liking “Ardee Concert Band” in order to stay up to date with all their news and events.

Band Bingo

Ardee concert Band’s very successful weekly Sunday night bingo continues this weekend in the Bohemian Centre, Ardee at 8pm where the Jackpot will be €??? . Lots of games and prize money to be won from the Play your cards game and “Winner takes all” game, double line panel games and all this aswell as the jackpot, you’d be mad to miss out for €11 euro.

Bohemian

Congratulations go out to the new graduates of Toddlers Hill crèche & Montessori, who graduated last Thursday June 27th in the Bohemian Centre.

The hall is available to rent for all engagements and contact details can be found on the Bands Website address; www.ardeeconcerband.com or on Facebook by searching “Bohemian Centre, Ardee”.

Latest News Updated 08/06/2013

Ardee Intermediate Band play State of the art Venue

The Ardee Concert Intermediate Band have been invited to give a recital in DKIT, Dundalk on Saturday 15th June at 4pm. The performance will coinside with the Society for Music Education in Ireland’s AGM in the impressive purpose built Music Department of the college campus on the day.

Throughout the day there will be a number of performances showcaseing the talent of young musicians in the North – East area and the Ardee Concert Intermediate band will be one of these to showcase. Other performances that will be showcased on the day will include ‘Music Generation Louth’s Junior Orchestra’ and a Performance by members of Louth CCÉ. “They are very lucky to be able to play this wonderful state of the art venue and its truly amazing facilities” said PRO Sinéad Nutley.

Also on the day there will be a number of workshops and talks on a range of topics relating to music education in Ireland. Attendees for the AGM can avail of these workshops and other Seminars on the day, to take worthly hints and tips back to their organisation members to help improve their everyday playing in order to perfect their long-term life-skill.

Latest News updated 26/05/2013

Band Members Achieve High Standards

Ardee Concert Band have been extremely busy in the last weeks as they have held their annual Grade Examinations in the Bohemian Centre, took part in & led the May procession through Ardee, holding their Annual Awards night for 2013 on top of their own personal and Weekly Practice sessions at home and under their tutors in the bandrooms of the Bohemian Centre.

Grade Examinations

The Annual Grade Examinations for the Band took place on Thurs and Friday, 16th and 17^th 2013. There were 44 members who took the exams, which range from Grade 1 up to Grade 8, accompanied by Gerry Farrell on Piano for the Thursday session and by Edward Holly on Friday. “We wish all our members the very best of luck in the coming weeks as their results are issued”, said PRO Sinéad Nutley.

MAY PROCESSION

On Sunday last, May 19th 2013 the Band took Part in the Revived May Procession in Ardee. The Procession started at the church and set of on a slow march just before one o’clock. The band led the procession, playing hymns to honour our Lady, Queen of the May during the interludes of Our Lady’s Rosary. Upon the Arrival of the Procession to the Fairgreen, Everyone involved: Young and Old took part in the Benediction, lead by Fr. Murphy P.P, joining in on the hymns and prayers. The Band closed the Sacred occasion by playing Faith our Fathers, Conducted by Kevin Reilly and joined in song by the whole Congregation.

AWARDS NIGHT

The Annual awards night of Ardee Concert Band took place Thursday last, May 23rd 2013 at 7.30pm.

The Recorder group, Junior and Intermediate Concert bands performed on the night in the Bohemian Centre. “This was the first Performance of the year

for our Junior band, they have only been together two months and they Played extremely well under their conductor Kevin Reilly, said PRO Sinéad Nutley.

Presentations for Progression were awarded to the members of the recorder group who moved onto an Instrument and also to the members of the Junior Band who progressed into the Intermediate band under John Gaynor last Month.

Certificates for Grade Exam success where presented to members who had achieved so highly in their Royal Irish Academy of Music Examinations in the past year.

Medals for our Intermediate Band were also presented by vice-Chairperson Jenny McKeever for their tremendous 2nd pace win in Limerick last month. All members and their parents attended the evening & there was refreshments served for everyone in the audience!

Internship Night

Last Friday May 24th, the Band were joined by their Interns from

their Intermediate Band. The Interns attend one of the senior bands 2 weekly rehearsals every two weeks to get a taste of Senior Band life!. This gives them a great insight into how the Ardee Concert Senior Band Rehearsals progress. They can take many hints and techniques away from this night, such as breathing exercises and sight reading tips back to their stand in the Intermediate band on their return. “Eventually over the summer months we hope to have all interns join us after their Exam results are issued in the next coming weeks” said Pro , Sinead Nutley

BAND BINGO

THIS SUNDAYS JACKPOT IS €4000!!
Play your cards game will win you €50 + €100 and Winner takes all Game guarantees you €500+ … and this for €11 euro including your book!

Starting at 8pm in the Bohemian Centre, Ardee, You’d be a fool to miss out!

Follow the band on our Facebook page for all their news.

Latest News page updated 11^th May 2013

Big Fun in the Sun for Ardee Concert Band

In the last few weeks, Ardee Concert Band, reeling in the success of our recent wins in the IABCB National Championships in Limerick last Month, have had an influx of Engagements entered into our Summer Diary. Let’s hope the suns shines on the award winning banding that will be performed in the North-East Region this summer.
Grade Exams
Over the next week the band room of the Bohemian Centre will be a hive of activity as 44 of our members will be preparing for their Royal Irish Academy of Music Grade exams which will take place in the Bohemian Centre, Ardee on May 16th & 17th.
May Procession
The senior band will take part in the revived May Procession that will leave from the church of the Nativity of our lady, Ardee to the Fairgreen, after 12 Noon mass on May 19th. The participation of all Schools, Clubs, Organisations and General Public of the Parish are invited by the Parish Pastoral Council.

Annual Awards Night 23^rd May

Thursday May 23rd will see the Ardee Concert Band Recorder group, Junior and Intermediate Concert Bands taking to the stage to add musical interludes to our Annual Awards Night in the Bohemian Centre where Grade exam certificates will be presented to the candidates who sat their exams in 2012.

All members and their parents are invited to attend from 7.30p.m. The night will be the first public performance of the year for the junior band under the baton of Kevin Reilly and it will also see the Intermediate Band being presented with medals by their conductor John Gaynor for their tremendous 2nd Place win in Limerick last month.

Future Summer Engagements for the Bands include:
July 5th-7th, South of Ireland Band Championships, Clonakilty. (Senior Band)
August 4th, Proms in the Park, Ardee Turfman Festival. (Intermediate and Senior Bands)
August 18th, Music in the Bandstand, Farmleigh House, Phoenix Park. (Senior Band)

Follow the band on our Facebook page for all their news.

Latest News page updated 21/04/2013

Momentous Musical Memories Recreated in Derry for Ardee Concert Band

Saturday last, 20^th of April 2013 was a most memorable day for Ardee Concert Band when it was our turn to be hosted for a return musical workshop with the Britannia Concert Band, in Lisneal College, Derry. We were delighted to be able to catch up with the members of Britannia who travelled to Ardee in March 2012 and to also meet the members who couldn’t travel last year, we also got to meet members of Strabane Concert Band and Dundonald Community Wind Band who joined in with the festivities for the day.

We arrived at 10am to a welcoming reception of refreshments after our long and early bus journey. After a welcoming speech from Colin Laird chairman of Britannia, the workshop began under the Baton of Trevor Carter with a total of 80 musicians coming together and running through 8 pieces of music, most of which the bands hadn’t seen before Saturday morning.

Trevor led and conducted the 2 full band performances for the workshop, and after a spectacular spread at lunch, the 3 sectional rehearsals were each led by Keith Anderson on brass, Glen Houston for the woodwind section and Mark Coyle who took the percussion section in their tutorial. The tutors imparted their expertise, demonstrating techniques in breathing; articulation and sound production for the brass and woodwind players, while Mark put the percussionists through their paces, précising techniques and rhythms for the pieces chosen for the day.

The bands formed together for the last leg of the afternoon under the baton of Trevor again performing pieces that were chosen by him for learning purposes. The pieces consisted of a March: Fame and Glory by Albert E. Matt, Palladio by Ken Jenkins, Arranged by R. Longfield, Coldplay on Stage by M. Browne and a piece named “First suite in Eb for Military Band ” Composed by Gustav Holst.

An Arrangement of Leonard Coen’s Hallelujah by M. Browne was also worked on and the piece, played by the band of 80 musicians can be seen on our Facebook page or on the following YouTube Link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U-DiCO29hdc

The members of both bands got plenty of time to chat with one another over numerous cups of tea, coffee and cakes during the day. The members of the band were bowled over by the friendliness and the warm reception received from the Britannia band and their Committee and a huge thank you goes out to all involved on the day. We were very impressed with the premises and facilities in the Lisneal Colleges Main Hall and Purpose built Music Rooms where the Sectionals where held. Both bands enjoyed the day and learned a lot from their three tutors. This was a wonderful collaboration for the band, it was a very worthwhile experience for everyone in the band, and new friendships were made, while old ones where reminisced upon.

This is the third Band we have had a collaboration with from Northern Ireland and this encourages cross border liaisons having already fused links with Fermanagh Concert Band and St Eugene’s Concert Band from Omagh.

Colin Laird, Chairman of Britannia Concert Band was presented with a Crystal bowl by Ardee’s Acting chairperson, Jen McKeever, which sat on a wooden engraved base in recognition of the enjoyable days banding had by one and all.

Latest News updated 10/04/2013

Ardee Concert Band Beat all at Championships!

Saturday last, 6th of April 2013 was a momentous day for both our Ardee Concert Senior and Intermediate Bands when they both par-took in the Irish Association of Brass and Concert Band National Competitions in the Spectacular Auditorium of the University of Limerick. A total of 100 members and supporters travelled the long journey to wish the bands the very best of luck.

Up first was our 35 strong Intermediate Band who took Second place out of 5 in Section 4 Concert under the baton of John Gaynor, their conductor. For their piece of own choice the Youth Band performed John Williams Trilogy by John Williams. Their test piece was Juan for the Road Composed by Fergal Carroll. Ardee Concert Intermediate Band received a remarkable 126 marks out of a possible 150 for their performances.

The 45 member senior band were entered into Section 2 Concert under the Baton of Brendan Breslin. The programme began with the Band playing their own choice piece entitled, ‘El Camino Real’ – “A Latin Fantasy” by Alfred Reed, based upon the style of Spanish Flamenco music with its fiery and brilliant Tempo’s, which received an astonishing 47 marks out of 50 for this piece.

Next for their test piece, ‘The Four Noble Truths’ by Philip Sparke, A piece that reflects the stresses of life through music, we received 91 marks out of 100, a total mark of 138 out of a possible 150. St. James Brass and Reed band fell two points behind Ardee with 136 points out of 150. Boherboy Brass and Reed Band from Limerick got a total of 130 awarding them 3^rd place. Ardee also took prizes for the Own Choice Piece trophy and Overall first prize in sections 2 and 3.

It was a long but very rewarding day for all, young and old; a day that will be remembered for years to come by all our members and supporters. For anyone attending this event it was a wonderful day’s music with a very high standard to beat next year.

Banding is very much alive and well in the hands of Ireland’s next generation with no worries that it will die out. All credit goes to the executive committee of the Irish Association of Brass and Concert bands who did a wonderful job, ably assisted by the staff of the University of Limerick.

Listen to the senior band’s performance by clicking on the following links or copying the URLs to your web browser:-

The Four Noble Truths

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=mE6Bb3Oa-_k

El Camino Real

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1UoMNSvvo24

Latest News Updated 25/03/2013

Church Gate Collection

The Ardee Concert Band is very grateful to the many people in the local community who supported their recent Church Gate Collection in Ardee and Ballapousta on the weekend of March 23^rd and 24^th. The people of Ardee and surrounding area are always very generous and supportive towards the Band.

A Taste of Hollywood for Ardee Concert Band youth members!

On Saturday March 23^rd2013, 71 of our youth members attended a Movie Themed Disco at the Bohemian Centre, Ardee. There were many stars present on the night, from James Bond and Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz to Toy Story’s own Cowgirl Jessie to The teenage mutant Ninja turtles; we had our own taste of Hollywood. They all took Part in Easter Themed games such as Egg and Spoon races, Pass the Egg Parcel, a Fancy Dress Competition and there was an Easter egg for everyone in the Audience. Thanks go to Sinéad Nutley and Aisling Reilly for all the hard work, to parents and our younger senior band members for helping out on the Day.

National Band Championships 2013

We now have a serious few weeks ahead as we prepare for the IABCB National Championships in University of Limerick on April 6^th. Both, our Intermediate Band under John Gaynor and our Senior Band under the baton of Brendan Breslin will be out to compete and smash records in both their respected sections!

St. Patrick’s Day 2013

March is typically a hectic month for Ardee Concert Band, with St. Patrick’s Day being the busiest day of the year, this year is no exception. The Ardee Concert Band played 12 noon Mass on St. Patrick’s Day in the Church of the Nativity of Our Lady, Ardee, under the Baton of John Gaynor. Members had a quick turnaround as we had to be back at the band room for 2pm to form up the ranks for the town’s parade at 3pm, as per usual the band led the festivities, which is always an honour.

Church Gate Collection

This coming weekend, March 23rd and 24th, is busy for the band again as our Church Gate Collection, at all masses in Ardee and Ballapousta takes place. The people of the town and surrounding areas are always very generous to the band, these are tough times for everyone and the band provides an outlet for many of the towns’ teenagers and children, teaching them music and providing leisure activities for the members.

Easter Party

That same weekend also gives band members the chance to mix with each other without their instruments, as the Ardee Concert Band provides an opportunity for members to kick start their Easter holidays off in good style with an Easter Party, in thanks for all their hard efforts over the last few months. This will take place on Sat 23rdth March at 6pm and is for members of Ardee Concert Band only.

National Band Championships

To top off a busy March season, the band will add to their calendar as members of the Intermediate Band and the Senior Band prepare for the National Band Championships which are being held in the University of Limerick on the 6th of April, both bands are working very hard towards these competitions, in order to top the great achievements of 2012 for both Bands.