Supported by Core Funding from the Community Relations Council (CRC), the Londonderry Bands Forum (LBF) recently offered a powerful glimpse into the heart of Northern Ireland’s band culture at a recent Did Ye Hear About? event.
The talk was led by the LBF project co-ordinator, Andrew Lynch, who used the platform to challenge long-held myths while showing how music is a force for positive change.
During his address, Andrew highlighted how he uses music – particularly the flute – to perform, connect, and celebrate culture.
Andrew explained that the Londonderry Bands Forum was founded in 2010 to give bands a voice, representing 24 bands across Derry and Limavady. He revealed the deep historical roots of this tradition, noting that seven of the forum's bands are over 100 years old, with the Churchill Flute Band being the oldest marching band in Ireland, formed in 1835. With over 660 marching bands and 30,000 members across Northern Ireland, Andrew highlighted its status as one of Europe's largest voluntary and arts movements.
Andrew also spoke about the profound social and personal benefits of his work. For many young boys who struggle in traditional education, music offers a lifeline. "I am an example of how this work goes beyond music," he said, sharing his own story of leaving school with no qualifications and finding purpose through music, which led him back to education and a university degree. "For many young Protestant boys, who statistically struggle in education, music becomes a way to build self-confidence, improve focus and teamwork, and discover new ways to learn."
By giving the Londonderry Bands Forum a platform to tell its story, this event showcased how CRC funding supports projects that create deeper understanding and respect between communities. Andrew said: "Bands are often judged unfairly. But if you look closer, you’ll see that bands provide real opportunities and benefits to people from all walks of life."
The myth buster lectures are part of the Connections – A Peace Barrier project, organised by the Neighbourhood Management Team and funded by the International Fund For Ireland.