Buíon Cheoil Sinsear Chloich Cheann Fhaola, the esteemed marching band, has been invited to perform at New York City’s iconic St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
The band will depart for New York on Saturday, March 15, and return on Thursday, March 20, marking a significant milestone in the band’s history.
Buíon Cheoil Sinsear Chloich Cheann Fhaola, also known as the Senior Band, was formed in August 2016 after a spontaneous reunion to welcome home the junior band following their All-Ireland win at Fleadh Cheoil Na hÉireann in 2016.
The reunion saw a remarkable turnout of past members, who, despite the short notice, gathered to celebrate and rediscover their love for marching and performing together.
The event sparked a renewed interest in forming a senior band, with members from various parts of Ireland, as well as the UK and Dubai, expressing a desire to reunite and compete in the senior miscellaneous section at the Fleadh the following year.
Since its reformation, Buion Cheoil Sinsear Chloich Cheann Fhaola has become a prominent figure in the marching band scene.
They have consistently participated in various competitions, most notably the All-Ireland Fleadh, where they have won in 2017, 2018, and 2023, and were runners-up in 2024.
Their vibrant performances and unwavering commitment to preserving Ireland’s rich musical heritage have made them a beloved presence in the community.
“There has been a strong tradition of marching bands in Donegal, particularly in the west of the county. Unfortunately, the prevalence of miscellaneous and accordion bands has seen a sharp decline since the late 1990s,” Laura Barrett Chairperson of Buíon Cheoil Sinsear Cloich Cheann Fhaola.
“The area of Chloich Cheann Fhaola has had a marching band since 1983, making it one of the longest-running bands in the county that has never disbanded. The financial costs in running a band have made it particularly difficult, and credit goes to all members, past committees, and the wider community for keeping the band going all these years.”
Buíon Cheoil Sinsear Chloich Cheann Fhaola’s participation in New York’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade offers a unique opportunity for audiences in the United States to experience the band’s authentic Irish sound and celebrate the spirit of Ireland.
“We are thrilled and honoured to have been invited to take part in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in New York City,” said Laura Barrett, This invitation is a testament to our dedication to traditional Irish music and culture. We look forward to sharing our passion with the people of New York and celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in such a vibrant and historic setting.”
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade in New York City is an annual event that attracts thousands of spectators from around the globe.
Buíon Cheoil Sinsear Chloich Cheann Fhaola invites everyone to join them on this exciting journey and celebrate Irish culture and heritage together.
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