A musical milestone: one of Limerick's oldest and most cherished bands marks 160 years

FROM HUMBLE beginnings to a legacy cherished by generations of Limerick people, St John’s Brass and Reed Band stands today as far more than a musical ensemble - it is a vibrant community of talented musicians and, more importantly, friends.

Founded in 1865 and originally known as The Victuallers Band, it began as the band of Limerick’s butchers’ guild.

Over the decades, it evolved in both name and scope, becoming St John’s Workmen’s Band in the 1920s, and eventually adopting its current name in line with its instrumentation - brass instruments such as trumpets, trombones, and e-flat basses, alongside reed instruments like clarinets, saxophones, and flutes.

As one of Ireland’s oldest community bands, St John’s is proudly celebrating 160 years of music-making.

Among those thrilled with the band’s recent recognition as Limerick Persons of the Month, is Tony McCarthy, chairperson of the band and clarinet player.

READ ALSO: 'Fast-paced' theatre show chosen as New York Times Critic’s Pick comes to Limerick

Tony, who was born and raised in Mulgrave Street, Limerick city, said: “We are very proud to be part of the musical life of our city.

“As a non-profit, community-based organisation with charity status, we have always had a vision and commitment to Limerick’s cultural development.

“In collaboration with the Redemptorist Centre of Music, who support our band, we rehearse at their premises every Monday night. It is a great social activity too and I have made great friends. It is a wonderful group.”

Marking the 160 years with a free commemorative concert in the city on Saturday, May 17, an exhibition was also held on the same day to highlight their colourful history.

This commemorative event featured a special anniversary exhibition and concert at the historic Old St John’s Church, John’s Square, Garryowen, tracing the band’s remarkable journey since its founding in 1865.

The concert drew great crowds who came from far and wide to hear the melodic tunes under the radiant sunshine in Limerick city, with special guests including Cllr Kieran O’Hanlon, Dr Matthew Potter, curator, Limerick Museum, and Dr Derek Mulcahy, Mary Immaculate College (MIC), both of whom reflected on the band’s cultural significance and historic legacy in Limerick.

Under the musical direction of Dr Andrew Jordan, who Tony describes as the band’s “main man”, the 30 band members come together to create music and socialise every week.

Upon being recognised for their efforts and being honoured with a Limerick Persons of the Month award, Dr Andrew Jordan said: “It’s our 160th year, so this award represents not just the members that are here this year, but all members that have been in the band over the last number of years. It’s a real honour.”

With band members ranging from age 17 to their 70s and from a diverse range of cultural backgrounds, such as Argentina, the St John’s Brass and Reed Band is ever evolving, which Tony feels is “of great importance”.

“I first heard the band marching up Mulgrave Street in the 1970s and when I joined the band in my 20s, the numbers were very, very low,” Tony said.

“There were about seven members. But they were great musicians and great guys, a few like Michael Hinchy, Jimmy McCormack, Brendan Dunne and Frank Phelan.

“They inspired me to stay in the band. They taught people. When I went into the band, I couldn’t read music or play an instrument, but they would bring you under their wing,” he explained.

“And I see that still, nothing has changed. The tutors are focused and even though it is a different generation, it’s evolving.

“It is an open door, everybody is welcome.”

READ ALSO: Iconic musical band celebrate 160-year anniversary with free concert in Limerick

The band has seen its share of difficulties over the decades, losing all its members during the war years, and again in the 1970s and 1980s, and having to give up their beloved band hall of over 40 years for city development work.

But with drive, passion and tireless effort, the band has always returned with a united spirit.

“With a band that has such a long history and tradition, nobody wants to be the last person out the door and to close the door behind them,” Tony continued.

“There is a legacy and we are very aware of the connection between the band and the culture of the city, especially for the likes of the International Band Festival and St Patrick’s Day, where thousands turn out on the streets to see us play.”

Celebrating a significant milestone in Limerick’s musical history, an exhibition showcasing a rich collection of memorabilia, photographs, instruments, uniforms, and artefacts chronicling St John’s Brass and Reed’s musical heritage will be opened at St Mary’s Cathedral, during Heritage Week in August.

“Over the last century, the band has represented Limerick at local, national and international levels.” Tony pointed out.

“In the early 2000s, around 2004, there was a new lease of life and it was the first time the band ever went abroad.

“We marched at the St Patrick’s Day parade in Boston, which was incredible. We also travelled to Quimper, France, which Limerick was twinned with.

“Another time we marched on a famous bridge in Prague, another St Patrick’s weekend, and we also went to Liverpool before to enter in a competition.

“They would have been good days for the band and while our numbers are increasing, it is looking up once again for the future!”

What truly sets St John’s Brass and Reed Band apart is not only its storied past and its musical excellence, but the enduring spirit of inclusion, mentorship, resilience and, friendship.

And long may it last!