Meenderry Band to take their final march through the streets of Falcarragh
As they prepare for their final march this Easter Sunday, they do so with pride, knowing they’ve brought joy to generations
Easter Sunday marks the final march through Falcarragh town for the beloved Meenderry Band, closing a heartfelt chapter in local musical history.
They will take part in a parade through the town along side both Cloughaneely Junior and Senior band at 7pm
Originally formed in the early 1960s by teacher Eddie Doohan at Meenderry School, the band was made up primarily of pupils from the school. Under Eddie’s leadership, the group flourished and even brought home silverware after a successful performance at a competition in Dungloe. When Eddie left the school in the mid-60s, the band paused for a time but was later revived by his successor, Seamus McHugh, who resumed practices during school hours, from Cassie’s Corner to the school.
Decades later, in August 2010, the band was reformed to mark the 100th anniversary of Meenderry School. The idea, first raised at a planning meeting, was warmly welcomed. Eighteen members turned out for the initial rehearsal, and by the time they gathered for their anniversary performance in Meenderry, 21 musicians proudly marched together once again. They performed four tunes on the day, led by Alfie Doohan, the band’s original leader, who also took the reins for the reunion. Among those watching with pride were both Eddie Doohan and Seamus McHugh.
Over the years, the Meenderry Band has performed at a wide range of local events, including Falcarragh’s St. Patrick’s Day and Easter Sunday parades, the Christmas lights switch-on where they also led Santa through the town, and welcome-home celebrations for the Cloughaneely bands following their All-Ireland victory. They also took part in Donegal’s All-Ireland win celebrations in Falcarragh in 2012. The band has played at Dunfanaghy Fair Day, Creeslough, Downings Festival, and Gortahork on Easter Sunday, as well as the Inishbofin Festival, for the past 10 years. In addition, they have performed at local nursing units including Lake House in Falcarragh and St. Martin’s, and at the Gaeltacht Games hosted by Cloughaneely CLG in 2011.
The band’s hats were generously sponsored by Joe Mangan, and today the group proudly boasts 18 members, including eight original members from the 1960s.
Meenderry Band’s legacy is one of community, continuity, and a deep-rooted love for music. As they prepare for their final march this Easter Sunday, they do so with pride, knowing they’ve brought joy to generations. This closing performance will be a poignant moment—not just for the band but for all who’ve followed their journey.
We remember with love those who were part of the original and reunion bands and have since passed away - Eddie McGinley, Kathleen McGinley (both from Drumnatinne), Grace Sweeney, and Alfie Doohan, the band’s long-time leader and guiding force. The spirit of Meenderry Band will march on in the hearts of the community they served so well.