A Lot of water has passed under the Athlumney Bridge, near where the band is now based, since we came into being in 1941 when we were known as the Navan Boys Band. The Band was founded by Rev.S.Kenny of St. Patrick's Classical School and Martin Ryan of Academy Street.
The first taste of success came in the early 60's with a victory in the National Championships at the first attempt. This trend spread to all aspects of Brass Band competition with members winning national and regional quartet, ensemble and solo competitions through the 70's and 80's.
As in everything, highs and lows come hand in hand, so when the band's membership fell to just 6 in the 1990's we refused to disperse and started a determined recruitment drive. This is an ongoing campaign and has helped to re-establish the band as a force on the national stage.
The band's primary aim is to bring music to all, and to give children, and adults the opportunity to learn to read music and to play and instrument. We give full and comprehensive training and we also provide instruments and uniforms. We have found that young band members who take music as a subject in the Dept. of Education exams do very well. Playing at public engagements gives players a great confidence. We also extend a welcome to any brass players or percussionists, ex-members or otherwise, their knowledge and experience can help the younger players to become more proficient.
