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.

  • The band will perform at the Annual Easter Rising Commemoration at Arbour Hill, Dublin. Playing at both the commemorative mass and leading the colour guard procession.

    April 21st, 2024 | 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm
  • Both the senior and academy band will participate in this year's National Band Championship. The competition will take place in Athlone.

    April 6th, 2024 | 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Join the band for a magical night of entertainment, packed full of your favourite movie music. Where: St Michael's Church, Inichcore

    February 25th, 2024 | 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm

Social updates

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

The last of our videos of the Academy Band at the National Championships features Arabian Dances which won 'Best Choice Piece' in our category! This piece features the fabulous Daria on solo Soprano Sax! 🎷If you play an instrument up to Grade 4 standard and would like to join the Academy Band - please don't hesitate to get in touch! Enjoy the video and feel free to dance and clap along!! 👏🎼📸 by Ion Racu! ... See MoreSee Less
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Here is Loch Lomond by the St. James's JD Academy Band at the National Championships featuring a video of photos taken throughout the day! Enjoy 🎶 ... See MoreSee Less
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Over the next few days, we'll be showcasing the pieces the wonderful Academy Band played at the National Championships last weekend.Here is the Lone Eagle March by the St. James's JD Academy Band!📸 by the wonderful Ion Racu! ... See MoreSee Less
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1 week ago

Saint James's Brass & Reed Band
This time yesterday 🏆 Thank you very much everyone for your kind messages and comments! We're absolutely delighted with the results from yesterday.Thank you to the Irish Association of Brass and Concert Bands - IABCB for another successful year of the Nationals! See you next year 🎶📸 by the wonderful Marguerite! ... See MoreSee Less
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The Academy Band is coming home with 2 trophies and 3 awards from the Nationals today!! 2nd PlaceBest Choice PieceMost Promising BandThis band has achieved so much considering it didn't exist 2 months ago. Well done to you all and congratulations Eva! 🏆 ... See MoreSee Less
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A massive congratulations to the Academy Band for their performance in the National Championships today. You were absolutely fantastic!!Congratulations to their conductor, Eva, for making the band look and sound so amazing! We'll be posting loads more videos and pictures over the next couple of days of the Academy Band, so watch this space!! 👀 ... See MoreSee Less
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