The Graiguenamanagh Brass Band’s future has been secured by a funding boost from Kilkenny LEADER Partnership (KLP). The historic band has received a €15,000 lifeline for new equipment to sustain their legacy of musical entertainment across County Kilkenny area and beyond.
One member said, “Funding for new instruments is something that has never happened in the history of the band. No one has ever come to us with this kind of help and because KLP has done this, it will keep the brass band going.”
Founded in 1760, the Graiguenamanagh Brass Band holds the title as the oldest brass band in Ireland. Almost every family in Graiguenamanagh has had a player in the band at some stage over the last centuries. The band has a long time connection with Duiske Abbey, playing for many occasions including the annual Christmas concert and Easter morning. The importance of keeping this traditional history alive in Graiguenamanagh is the bands priority. The band’s aim to recruit more young members has also been successful and they now hope to start a student band. New instruments were just the boost they need to get this project underway.
The support for the Brass band is bringing both cultural and social benefit to an area. Kilkenny LEADER Partnership is pleased to support a local organisation with such a strong heritage.
