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.

  • We are delighted to be invited to play a selection of Christmas Carols in our neighbourhood Primary School - St James's - on the 20th December at 11 am.

    December 20th, 2023 | 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • St. James's Band will return for the annual parish Christmas concert in St. Michael's Church on the 17th December at 7pm. Free admission to all.

    December 17th, 2023 | 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
  • Join the band at the Whitewater S.C. on the 16th (4.30pm) and 20th December (7pm) for a festival programme of Christmas cheer while you shop.

    December 16th, 2023 | 4:30 pm - December 20th, 2023 | 7:00 pm

Social updates

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

In memory of Shane MacGowan, here is Fairytale of New York by the St. James's Brass and Reed Band. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam 💙 ... See MoreSee Less
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Remember the lockdowns? 🤪 Throwback to a time when we were not able to physically be together but the wonderful Ion Racu made this video to make us feel that little bit closer. Enjoy 🎶 ... See MoreSee Less
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5 days ago

Saint James's Brass & Reed Band
The festive season is well underway at St. James's Band! Thanks for having us today Richmond Barracks! We had a ball 🎄 ... See MoreSee Less
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6 days ago

Saint James's Brass & Reed Band
Saint James's Brass & Reed Band's cover photo ... See MoreSee Less
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6 days ago

Saint James's Brass & Reed Band
Thank you Richmond Barracks for having us today - we really enjoyed playing some Christmas Classics at the fair today.We'll be back tomorrow at 3.45pm 🎄 ... See MoreSee Less
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1 week ago

Saint James's Brass & Reed Band
We're excited to be playing tomorrow AND Sunday at 3.45pm in Richmond Barracks! Come along to the Christmas Fair - it's always a fantastic event! 🎄🧑‍🎄 ... See MoreSee Less
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