The beloved Meenderry Band will make its final march in Falcarragh on Easter Sunday, it has been announced.
The band, which started 60 years ago, is coming to an end with a sense of pride.
They’ll make their swan song during a parade through Falcarragh along side both Cloughaneely Junior and Senior band at 7pm on Easter Sunday.
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.
The early days of the Meenderry Band
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.
That memorable reunion took place 15 years ago, and the band has continued to represent the Meenderry community ever since, performing at countless local events and celebrations.
The band’s hats were generously sponsored by Joe Mangan, and today the group proudly boasts 18 members, including 8 original members from the 1960s.
They also 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.
