Kirlish Pipe Band celebrates 100 years of making music

THE Kirlish Pipe Band, loved for its sharp, sweet tones, and depth of sound, celebrated their 100th birthday during a very special reception in Omagh.

Taking place at the council offices, The Grange, the milestone event featured a speech by chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Errol Thompson, who congratulated all band members of the past and present, for their excellent commitment and dedication.

One of nine pipe bands in the area, Kirlish Pipe Band is associated with Kirlish Orange Lodge LOL 380, and its members, of all ages, hail from the Drumquin community.

Speaking during the event, Cllr Errol Thompson said that it was important to recognise and celebrate the Kirlish Pipe Band’s history, and encourage new members to join so that members can continue making music and memories for generations.

“I wish to congratulate you all on achieving this milestone anniversary,” he said. “I understand Kirlish was a flute band in its formative years until 1921, when it purchased bagpipes, and it has been part of the community in Drumquin ever since.

“Being part of a band is special because it is a unique family, and gives you the opportunity to make lifelong friendships and memories, both within the band and at events,” he added. “As well as teaching the skills of piping and drumming, being in a band also teaches you a variety of valuable skills including teamwork and better communication, whilst at the same time building confidence and having fun.

“Therefore, I would encourage you to continue playing together and encourage other young people to join, to ensure that Kirlish Pipe Band continues for generations to come, an that others have the opportunity to be a part of this special intergenerational experience and ensure the culture and heritage is maintained.

“I would like to take the opportunity to commend all the members, past and present, for your commitment and dedication which has sustained Kirlish Pipe Band in a rural area for the last 100 years,” Cllr Thompson concluded. “Each of you can be proud of the history of the band and the part that you have played in it and establishing the name of Kirlish Pipe Band locally and further afield.

“I wish you every success for the future, so the band can continue to grow from strength-to-strength.”