Ballinasloe Town Band Bringing Christmas Cheer

Prompted by the success and reaction to their summer recitals at Nursing homes, the Town Band are determined to revisit the local nursing homes again, covid permitting, to safely deliver musical Christmas cheer to the residents and staff.

However, the opportunities for the Town Band to gather recently have been minimal. Bandmaster, Noel Madden, and Youth Band Director, Keith Kelly, took on the challenges imposed on large gatherings. They upskilled themselves on the use of online Zoom technology allowing different sections of both bands to go online, to engage and interact at set times twice a week to safely rehearse the Christmas collection of music, hymns and carols.

Observers of the renovations to the Band Hall will have noticed that the slates on the entire roof have been removed and in compliance with heritage requirements most of the original slates will be reused again. Other works within the hall are continuing – finalising heating, plumbing and electrical works with a view to completing the project by year end.

The “Raise the Roof Campaign” set a fundraising target of €50k. The campaign has now reached 80% of its target. The Band Committee are extremely grateful for the communities’ generosity to date are hopeful that the remainder of slates are purchased thereby securing funding for the repair and re-slating of the roof. “Slates” may still  be purchased for €50 from any Band Member or online through the Ballinasloe Town Band Facebook page or via the bands website:    www.ballinasloetownband.ie. 

They may make an ideal Christmas Gift for someone who can’t come home this year! Enquiries to Martina 087 9710496

The Junior Band has continued to learn and practice throughout this difficult time for all youth activities. The junior members meet on Zoom to learn music theory and to learn about famous composers and musicians such as Mozart and the Beatles through music appreciation classes. 

Each week the staff of the band send instructional videos to band members showing them how and what to practice on their instrument. The band members then record themselves playing the same exercises and get feedback from the teachers.

The band is also accepting new members through their "Virtual Introduction to Band” classes which focus on Rhythm sessions and some fundamental music theory. If you have a child from 8-12 years of age that is interested in learning about the band, now is a great time to contact us to find out more. You can do so at www.ballinasloetownband.ie/join 

“On behalf of the Senior and Junior Band members, the Ballinasloe Town Band Committee wish to extend their warmest wishes to the people of Ballinasloe and their families over the coming festive season and hope the new year brings health and happiness to all,” states Band Master Noel Madden.