25 Years of the Tonragee Pipe Band (Banna Píob Thóin Ré Gaoith)

25 Years of the Tonragee Pipe Band

Achill Island, County Mayo is home to a beloved musical tradition — the Tonragee Pipe Band, known in Irish as Banna Píob Thóin Ré Gaoith. Formed in 1999, the band has been proudly keeping the spirit of Irish bagpiping alive for 25 years. In 2024, they celebrated a major milestone: a quarter-century of music, culture, and community.

Tonragee Pipe Band celebrating 25 years

How It All Started

The Tonragee Pipe Band was established in 1999 with the goal of preserving and promoting traditional Irish pipe music in the local area. Since then, they’ve become a cherished part of the Achill Island cultural landscape — performing at parades, local festivals, commemorations, and community events.

The band features a talented and passionate group of musicians, including:

• Lindsey Sutton

• Pip Vesey

• Michael O’Malley

• Peter O’Malley

• Michael Gallagher

• El Kay

• Ronan Kilbane

• Martin Patten

• Siobhán Grealis

• Leon Sutton

• Pamela O’Boyle

• Orla Joyce

• Niall O’Connor

And many more have contributed their time and talent over the years — all sharing a love of Irish music and heritage.

Tonragee Pipe Band pictured in Achill Island

A Big 25th Anniversary 

To mark their 25th anniversary in 2024, the Tonragee Pipe Band held a special celebration: a dinner dance at the local Óstán Oileán Acla (Alice’s Hotel). The event brought together past and present band members, supporters, and members of the community to reflect on the band's legacy and look forward to the future.

This celebration wasn’t just about the music — it was a heartfelt tribute to the people who’ve kept this tradition strong and vibrant for a quarter of a century.

Banna Píob Thóin Ré Gaoith with Irish Military Forces

The Tonragee Pipe Band is a symbol of Irish pride, community spirit, and cultural preservation. From their stirring marches to their unmistakably Irish sound, the band continues to inspire new generations of musicians and listeners alike.

As they step into the next chapter of their journey, the Tonragee Pipe Band remains a vital thread in the fabric of Achill Island’s rich cultural heritage.