Double Ardee Triumph at All-Ireland Band Championships
By ArdeePost Reporter
Double Victory for Ardee Concert Bands at All-Ireland Championships
It was a weekend of celebration and history for Ardee Concert Band, as both their Senior Band and Intermezzo Ensemble claimed top honours at the 107th Championship of Ireland Bands Contest, held across two Saturdays in October at the Market Place Theatre, Armagh.
The Intermezzo Ensemble, under the direction of Musical Director James MacCafferty, took to the stage on Saturday, October 11th, competing in the Fourth Grade Concert section. The 35-strong group delivered a powerful and polished programme featuring Clutch, Gabriel’s Oboe — which included a stunning flute solo by Hollie Reilly — Shadow Realm, and Escape.
Their performance captivated both the audience and adjudicators, but it also made history — becoming the first concert band performance ever to be live-streamed from a contest on the island of Ireland, broadcast via the North of Ireland Bands Association’s Facebook page.
Ardee Senior Band continues its winning legacy
Following the Intermezzo Ensemble’s success, the Ardee Senior Band, conducted by Musical Director Ronan O’Reilly, took to the stage to defend their Championship Concert title and aim for a remarkable fourth consecutive Turner Trophy.
Performing Symphonic Overture by James Barnes, the Senior Band impressed adjudicator Liz Childs, whose comments praised their technical precision, balance, and musical expression. When results were announced later that day, it was double delight for Ardee — both bands were crowned Champions of Ireland in their respective divisions.
The Intermezzo Ensemble received a plaque, medals, and certificate, while the Senior Band proudly collected the Turner Trophy for the fourth consecutive year. The victory also marked a significant milestone — the Senior Band’s 12th Championship title, first achieved forty years ago in 1985. This remarkable feat now makes them joint most successful band from the Republic of Ireland in the event’s storied history.
A historic and proud moment for Ardee
The success of the Intermezzo Ensemble added a special chapter to Ardee Concert Band’s long and distinguished history. Not only did they win the national title, but their live-streamed performance symbolised the evolution of Irish concert band music — bridging tradition with modern technology.
“To see both our Senior Band and Intermezzo Ensemble crowned champions is a testament to the hard work, passion, and commitment of every member,” said Musical Director Ronan O’Reilly. “It’s been an incredible journey for the entire Ardee Concert Band family.”
The event, organised by the North of Ireland Bands Association, brought together some of the best musical talent from across Ireland, showcasing the diversity and excellence of concert band performance.
For Ardee Concert Band, this double victory reinforces their reputation as one of Ireland’s most respected and successful musical institutions.
As the applause rang out in Armagh and celebrations continued back home in Ardee, the band’s members — from the youngest player to the most seasoned performer — shared a collective sense of pride, achievement, and joy.
With both titles secured and a historic broadcast achieved, Ardee Concert Band’s 2025 campaign will be remembered as one of their finest yet — a shining example of community spirit, musical excellence, and dedication to the arts.