Threat to future of historic band lifted as council provides new home

A THREAT to the future of one of Limerick’s most historic musical institutions has been lifted with the provision of a temporary home for the St John’s Brass and Reed Band.

The band’s home at Newtownmahon in Mulgrave Street is going to be demolished to make way for a new roadway.

Limerick City Council acquired the building through a compulsory purchase order and time ran out earlier this week.

Band members moved instruments and musical sheets to their own homes as they prepare to move into a temporary band room provided by the council at The Granary.

John Doyle, musical director of the band said: “It is resolved. We are not talking in terms of victory, it is just resolved.

“We had our final meeting in the bandroom on Monday night and we did what we do best – that is play music. The band then packed up their stuff and were out of the building by Tuesday evening.”

The band will move into The Granary for a six-month period.

However, they feel it will not be suitable as a long-term base as The Granary opens Monday to Friday.

Mr Doyle said: “We are just hoping in this period, we can get our own permanent building. We have a number of places that people have very generously offered us. I think our most important concern is that our music is safeguarded while we regroup. I think it is important to underline the feeling in the band-room was one of huge hope.

“The band was marking the end of an era this week. But the attitude was that it is the start of a new era.”

Councillor Jim Long welcomed the fact that the band has been provided with accommodation by the city council ensuring the continuation of a great musical tradition in the city.