Archived Histories of Brass Bands
These pages are an archive of historical details from existing or defunct brass band websites. This is being maintained to provide a record of this information in the event of a band folding, its website disappearing or other loss of the historical record.
Where possible, and appropriate, the information cached will be updated from time to time - and any corrections or updates are welcome.
Ballyduff Silver Band
Ballyduff Silver began life as a flute band in 1894. This type of ensemble were the most popular in Northern Ireland during the late 1800's early 1900's. They competed in all the usual band competitions with some success until 1951 when the decision was taken to change to brass, as this was a cheaper option, rather than purchasing a new set of flutes!!
The conductor of the band during the transition period was Bob Meharg, who remained with the band for a number of years. He was followed by John McCoy, Herbie Majury and George Bayford who was regarded as one of the finest cornet players in Ireland during the 1960's when the 55th Old Boys band were at their peak.
Noel Roy served the band faithfully as principal cornet and then as conductor for a period of nearly fifteen years. It was during this period that the band had a spell in the Championship Section in the late 1970's and by then had began to build their reputation as one of the most entertaining bands in the province.
In 1986, Ballyduff Silver Band purchased a complete new set of instruments at a cost of almost £50,000. This was raised by a lot of hard work by the band members, organising fund raising events as well as their usual summer and Christmas engagements.