Castlelyons Pipe Band: Over 50 Years of Music

The Castlelyons Pipe Band was founded by a group of dedicated locals, including:

• Rev. Fr. Seamus Corkery

• Jackie Ronayne

• Willie Ronayne

• Mickey Green

• Jack Murray

• John Byrne

• Peter Hurley

• Frank Murray

• Cyril Casolani

• Pat Foley

• Tom Manton

Their vision? To create a band that preserved the Irish piping tradition and brought people together through music.

They weren’t alone in this mission. Castlelyons is part of a rich regional piping heritage, with notable groups like the Oliver Plunkett Pipe Band, Thomas Kent Pipe Band, and the Army Comrades Association Pipe Band (Collins Branch) — many of which are believed to trace their roots back to the early Fermoy Pipers Club of the 1900s.

In 1958, a public meeting marked the beginning of structured growth. With Jack Murray as the first instructor, and drumming support from Dave Walsh and Bobby Hull, the band began offering twice-weekly classes — charging just 1 shilling for adults and 6 pence for children.

With the help of community loans and support, uniforms were acquired, and the band made its debut at the Fermoy Show — with just four members in full dress. From there, performances at local festivals like Conna helped build their presence.

By the 1960s, the band had made its first radio broadcast and hosted a successful pipe band festival in Castlelyons, attracting groups from across Munster. Under instructor Jack Murray, the band began competing — achieving early success in Limerick and Tipperary competitions.

Key performance milestones:

• Annual trips to Dungarvan for St. Patrick’s Day

• Regular appearances at the Tralee Rose Festival

• A major international outing at the London St. Patrick’s Day Parade in 2002

• Aspirations for future appearances in Boston and beyond

A new state-of-the-art band room in Bridesbridge reflects their ongoing commitment to growth and excellence.

The band embraced competition more formally in 1997 under the instruction of Barry Murphy from Carrigaline.

Achievements include:

• 1998 Munster Championship (Grade 5) in Blarney – including Best Drum Corps

• South East Championship (Grade 5) in Gorey, Wexford

• Multiple wins at the Dungarvan St. Patrick’s Day Parade for Best Musical Entry (three consecutive years)

• A strong showing at the All-Ireland Championships in Kilkenny

These victories speak to the dedication and talent that continues to define the Castlelyons Pipe Band.