The Drogheda Brass Band’s annual slow melody solo contest was held at the band’s premises at East Coast Business Park last Saturday.

Forty-two players took part in the competition, which covered the under-12, under-15 and under-18 age groups as well as a new open section for the adults.

Adjudicator for the contest was Brendan Breslin, conductor of Ardee Concert Band, who complimented the high standard of performances on the day.

In the under-12 section, Conor Loughman took the honours with his performance of Danny Boy. In second place was Jessica Campbell and in third was Sarah Finnegan. Conor picked up the Michael Maher cup from Drogheda Brass Band Musical Director Michael Maher who was very impressed with the quality of performances.

In the under-15 section, Eoin Brereton took the honours with his rendition of Skye Boat Song. He won the Tony Collins cup which was presented to him by band President Tony Collins. Taking second prize in that section was Luke Murphy, while Angelo Ingram picked up third prize.

Under-18 winner was Medb Brereton, sister of Eoin, for her performance of A Nightingale Song in Berkeley Park, making it a family double on the day. Medb was presented with the Dan Cassidy Memorial Cup by Martin Cassidy. Ailish Newton took second prize in the under-18 section, while Andrew Gavin came third.

In the open section, the band’s Principal Cornet player, Stephen Murray, won the Directors’ Cup – a new trophy for a new section – with his convincing performance of Swedish Hymn. In second place in the open section was Michael Plunkett, and third was Mark Nutley.

Barry Maher, Director of the School of Music, thanked everyone who came to the event and supported it in any way, including all those who baked cakes and buns and served refreshments on the day. He also praised the band’s teachers for their hard work in making the event a success.

Barry presented all the students of the School of Music who had completed grade exams with their certificates.

The Drogheda Brass Band will be playing during the visit of President Michael D. Higgins to Drogheda this Friday. The Drogheda Youth Brass Band will be taking part in the South of Ireland Band Championships in Clonakilty on July 4th. For more information about the band and how to join, see their website www.droghedabrassband.ie.