The annual Irish Association of Brass and Concert Bands National Championships took place at the Dean Crowe Theatre in Athlone recently, with Drogheda Brass Band claiming the title for a record equalling 15th time.

Successful debut

It also marked a successful debut for conductor Stephen Murray, who swapped his cornet for a baton in May last year/

He led them to what adjudicator Sarah Groarke-Booth described as "a clear winner" victory with on the set-work, 'The Lost Village of Imber' by Christopher Bond, one marked by "consistency throughout".

It also marked a hat-trick of victories at the contest following success in 2019 and 2023 (2020-22 were suspended due to Covid-19), whilst the band's fine euphonium player Anthony Murphy took the 'Best Instrumentalist' award.

INF winner

In Section 2, Irish National Foresters took the honours under Mark Nutley, whilst a richly deserved Honorary Lifetime IABCB Membership award for services to bands in Ireland was presented to Francis Duffy of Navan Silver Band.

Section 1:

Adjudicator: Sarah Groake-Booth
Test Piece: The Lost Village of Imber (Christopher Bond)

1. Drogheda Brass Band (Stephen Murray): 188
2. Lourdes Brass Band (Gavin Warren): 186
3. Stedfast Band (Brian Daly): 182
4. Navan Silver Band (Kevin Teers): 181

Best Instrumentalist — Anthony Murphy (euphonium) — Drogheda Brass Band

Section 2:

Adjudicator: Sarah Groake-Booth
Own Choice:

1. INF Brass Band (Mark Nutley): 182

Best Overall Band of the Championship: Drogheda Brass Band