Limerick groups pipe their way to success at South of Ireland championship
Musicians win on the double as Limerick triumph in Cork - yet again!
IT was party time at South’s Pub in the city centre as local musicians celebrated an exceptional day of success at the South of Ireland Band Championship.
Instrumentalists from the Redemptorist Centre of Music gathered to mark a sparkling weekend for the Limerick school as they brought home an impressive collection of awards from the championship held in Clonakilty, Co Cork.
The Redemptorist Centre of Music Concert Band, based at South Circular Road, won the top prize in the intermediate section, while also bringing home awards for the best musical arrangement and the best woodwind section.
A special adjudicator’s prize also went to Mark Cooney, who plays the oboe in the band.
It was a silver award for the Thomond Wind Ensemble, founded in 2024 in the heart of the city. They were runners-up in the seniors section.
The ensemble also received the Irish Symphonic Wind Orchestra award for best performance of an original wind band composition.
And it was a case of double celebration for oboe-player Mark, who received a second judges prize.
Dr Andrew Jordan, the musical director of both ensembles, said: “These awards are recognition of countless hours of rehearsal, commitment, teamwork and a shared passion for making music. To see our musicians achieve this success is incredibly rewarding and reflects the strength of music education and community music-making in Limerick."
The win continues an extraordinary start to life for Thomond Wind Ensemble.
At the same event in Clonakilty in their debut year, they won first place in the senior section, alongside a number of additional prizes.
Dr Jordan added: “The success of the Redemptorist Centre of Music highlights the organisation's long-standing commitment to providing accessible, high-quality music education for children, young people and adults across the Mid-West. Through its concert bands, individual tuition and ensemble programmes, the centre continues to nurture musicians of all ages while fostering confidence, friendship, creativity and lifelong participation in music.”
He also said: “The double success in Clonakilty is a testament to the dedication of the musicians, tutors, volunteers and supporters whose commitment continues to inspire the vibrant musical community fostered by both organisations.”
Mayor of Limerick John Moran joined the celebrations at South’s Pub, and he also congratulated the musicians.