The competition, held in Clonakility West Cork attracted entries from 17 bands representing all parts of the country and adjudicated by Mr Pat Dunleavy and Mr Michael Casey. The Lourdes Band under thier conductor Mr. Harry Kelly competed in the Senior section of the competitions and wowed the judges and packed audience with a stunning and entertaining performance. The programme included the "Pirates of the Caribbean", the march "Arnhem" and the "Muppet Show Theme".
Highlight of the day was the band's tuba palyer John Kelly who stole the show with his Solo performance of the "Bare Necessities".
In Addition to scooping the Top prize the band went on to win two of the other major prizes on offer. Richard Barrett and Kayleigh Brannigan were named as the Best percussion section of the event after turning in a rocking performance, while Colin Black, Gareth Curran, John Kelly and Derek Carter ensured the band secured the Best Bass section trophy.
For many of the Band's younger players this was their first time competing in competition and they put in a super effort leading to the Band's win.
The North East certainly performed well at the Cork based Championships with the Navan Silver Band, under their conductor Paul Byrne, winning the Intermediate of the Championship. Congratulations.
Senior:
1 st Lourdes Brass Band
& St Mary's Fermanagh
2nd Blarney Brass and Reed
3rd Fermoy Concert Band
Intermediate:
1st Navan Silver Band
2nd Dungarvan
3rd Knlcklyon
Junior:
1st Fermoy
2nd C.J Kickham Tipperary