Welcome

Welcome to the St. James’s Brass and Reed Band website – the oldest band in Ireland and possibly Europe. Officially established in 1800 but early records trace back to as far as 1737.

St. James’s Band has participated in numerous events of historic importance, which included playing at the meetings of Daniel O’Connell and Charles Stewart Parnell. The band was invited to play at Parnell’s home in Avondale and later led his funeral to Glasnevin Cemetery. You can read more about the band on our history page.

St. James’s Band boasts a vast musical repertoire that ranges from overtures, selections, marches, and some of the most current popular tunes. View our upcoming performances.

If you are interested in learning an instrument or would like to join the band explore our JD Academy Band and New Members pages for more details. If you would like to hire the band get in touch.

Our conductor Kevin Corcoran is an acclaimed ensemble and solo percussionist with experience in classical, band and stage performances. In recent years he has begun the transition to conducting. Read more about Kevin here.

band members outside

Next performances

Here are our next performances. Get in touch if you would like to hire us for your event.

  • Our JD Academy will play in The Square Shopping Centre on the 20th December at 7pm. All welcome.

    December 20th, 2024 | 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
  • The band are delighted to perform at this year's St. Michael's Church Christmas Concert. Not to be missed. The evening promises to be packed full of talented local performers. All welcome.

    December 15th, 2024 | 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm
  • Join the band as we perform our Christmas programme in Newbridge Shopping Centre from 11am on the 8th December. All welcome!

    December 8th, 2024 | 11:00 am - 1:00 pm

Social updates

If you have any questions you can connect with us on our social networks.

The River Kwai March by St James’s Academy Band taking home the Irish Association of Brass and Concert Bands - IABCB prize for Best March ... See MoreSee Less
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Congratulations to our St James’s JD Academy Band who, yesterday, took home 2nd place in Section 4 of the National Band Championships in Ardee. Not only that but they won the prize for Best March. 🏆🏆A huge amount of work went into this result, not least from conductor Eva O'Toole whose dedication and passion has never wavered. For a band formed only 15 months ago to achieve such success is outstanding.We are so proud of you all.Congratulations too to our friends in Finglas Concert and Marching band who took home 1st place, and St Mary’s for taking home 3rd place. Well done to everyone who took part! ... See MoreSee Less
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Good luck tomorrow to the St James’s JD Academy Band travelling to Ardee for the National Band Championships! 🎶🥁🎺🪈We are all rooting for you in St James’s Brass and Reed band and friends! Irish Association of Brass and Concert Bands - IABCB ... See MoreSee Less
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