From early morning pipe bands and spectators from home and abroad descended on the grounds of Newbridge House, Donabate, County Dublin, for the All-Ireland Pipe Band Championships – and what a great day of musical entertainment and competition it was.
Grade 1 is always a tight affair, and this year was no different. St Laurence O’Toole took the early initiative by winning the MSR, giving them a two point lead. Despite Field Marshal’s indifferent form this season, they stormed back taking the Medley, meaning both bands finished on the same points. Dublin-based St Laurence claimed the All-Ireland title on MSR & Ensemble Preference. The band’s winning MSR can be viewed above.
County Down’s Ravara, unbeatable in Grade 2 at home, continued in similar vein. They were awarded ‘ones’ by the four adjudicators and you really can’t get much better than that. This was their fourth All-Ireland title in a row.
Grade 3A has revealed a series of winners this year however. Clogher triumphed on the day ahead of an improving Major Sinclair Memorial. County Tyrone’s Matt Boyd Memorial, surprisingly out of the main prize list, still made a big impact when their drummers claimed the best drums and bass section titles.
There was a change of winners in Grade 3B with the youthful Syerla taking the title on Ensemble Preference over Cloughfin, and winning the drum corps prize.
Grade 4A has been a very competitive section and the All Irelands proved that with Irvine Memorial taking the title by two points over Upper Crossgare and Gransha winning the drumming. Interestingly Cullen from County Cork received the best piping award having gained the top score from both piping adjudicators.
Local band Black Raven won Grade 4B with a comprehensive win in the largest section of the day. Altnaveigh Memorial claimed second with Carrigaline taking best drums.
It was an excellent day for Northern Ireland based drum majors as they took all four section titles. Following the March Past there was the traditional lament in memory of those who had passed away since last year’s event. It was beautifully played by Christopher Russell of St. Laurence O’ Toole. The results were then read out by IPBA Secretary Johnny Sheehan, and the prizes presented by IPBA President Terry Tully.
’70s Tribute Band
At the Worlds a few years ago there was a performance by a pipe band made up of former top level pipers and drummers. It paid tribute to the introduction, in 1970. of the Medley into the pipe band repertoire. At the All Irelands this group played between the Grade 1 MSR and Medley sections to great acclaim. Under the direction of David Caldwell and John Scullion, the band recreated Shotts’ 1973 Worlds-winning medley: Peter McKenzie Warren, Loch Broom Bay, Dalnahassaig, O’er The Bows to Ballindalloch, Lord James Murray, Linen Cap and Jim Tweedie’s Sea Legs. This initiative was made possible through the assistance of McCallum Bagpipes and Andante.
NI Branch Chairman
Chairman Alastair Patterson commented on the 2024 season which ended in Newcastle on Saturday August 10th: ‘It has been a privilege to work with all of our Bands, Drum Majors and Highland Dancers, my fellow officers, officials, directors, stewards, compilers, and adjudicators. I say thank you to you all.
‘The NI ‘team’ has worked tirelessly to deliver the highest standard of competitions possible. Whilst we got most of it right, sometimes it doesn’t always go to plan – overall we have done our very best.’ He also thanked those who through the printed press and social media had given the organisation such excellent coverage.
Solos in September
The band season may have ended but the music goes on – we are now in the solo season. First up is the UK Solo Drumming Championship this Saturday (September 7) in Greystone Primary School, Antrim. The Adult Grade drummers will compete for the Bobby Rea Cup and one of six coveted semi-final spots in the upcoming World Solo Drumming championships in Glasgow.
Last year Down Academy Pipe & Drums organised a very successful juvenile solo piping and drumming event and this is being repeated on Saturday September 14th in Ballynahinch High School from 10am. Closing date for entries is 11th September. Full details on the band’s Facebook page. The band is most appreciative of the support it has received from the Ulster-Scots Agency.
This event provides young competitors with an opportunity to hone their performances ahead of the All-Ireland and JAC Solos which will take place the following Saturday, September 21st, in Lisnagarvey High School. The syllabus is available on the RSPBANI Branch website.
