St. Joseph's Pipe Band: Clondalkin’s Pipe Band

Located in the historic Gaelic village of Clondalkin, County Dublin, St. Joseph's Pipe Band has been captivating audiences since 1937. Their journey, rich in tradition and marked by global achievements, recently reached a pinnacle with a victory at the 2019 World Pipe Band Championships in Grade 3, showcasing an inspiring comeback. 

St. Joseph’s Pipe Band after winning the World Pipe Band Championships in Glasgow Green, Scotland (2019).

Early Days and Growth

St. Joseph's Pipe Band was founded in 1937 and quickly became a cherished part of the Clondalkin community. A notable photograph from 1957 shows the band playing for the Clondalkin Round Towers team, highlighting their dedication to local events. From their initial practice sessions in a modest shack on Old Nangor Road, Clondalkin, to their current practice space which also serves as a school for children, the band's growth mirrors the community's evolution.

St. Joseph’s Pipe Band leading a team around the field before a match. The team was the Clondalkin Round Towers team. This image is from 1957.

Legendary Members

The band’s history is rich with iconic figures, especially Terry Tully, an acclaimed Irish bagpiper who joined in 1966. Terry, son of the legendary Tommy Tully, has made a lasting impact, with "Tommy Tully's Air" being a testament to their legacy. Stephen Creighton, a renowned drummer who began his career with St. Joseph's, also stands out. Additionally, Pipe Major Tim Farrelly, who moved from St. Dominic’s Pipe Band in Tallaght, brought innovative changes to the band in the late 1980s, further enhancing its musicality. Tim Farrelly has been a huge key to the success of the modern day band and developing of players. The band’s history is filled with many legendary characters who have contributed to its rich heritage. Other well known names throughout the years: Simon Grace, Paschal Kavanagh, Brendan Boland, Ian Saunders, Margaret Saunders, Robert Quinn, Declan Gielty, Mick Gleeson, James Quirke, Patrick Fitzpatrick, Paul Sheehan, Eamon McDonnell, Joe Gallagher, Eddie O’Connor, Liam Dever, Philip Duffy, Eddie Boland, Chris Shearer, Cillian Bissett, John Hunt, Paudie Hunt, Gay McCoy, Martin Gallagher, Paul Croke, Jem Gallagher, David Nolan, Gerry Mahady, Conor McNally, Collie Aherne. Many more names could be added to this list.

Stephen Creighton - Drum Sergeant of St. Joseph's Pipe Band

Resurgence and Global Success

In the late 1990s, St. Joseph's saw a decline in membership, leading to a merger with St. Laurence O'Toole Pipe Band in 1999. Contrary to expectations, this merger sparked a remarkable resurgence. By 2016, under the leadership of Tim Farrelly and Philip Duffy, the band re-entered the competition circuit and quickly advanced from Grade 3B to Grade 3A.

The Berlin Interlude and Global Travels:
In 2016, St. Joseph's Pipe Band left an indelible mark on the global stage by participating in the Military Tattoo in Berlin, Germany. This international foray not only showcased their musical prowess but added another chapter to the band's storied history.

The Practice Room and Continuing Legacy:
The band's unwavering commitment to its roots is reflected in its continued use of the Old Nangor Road location for practice. What was once a modest shack with a galvanized roof has now transformed into a secure and warm building, also serving as a school for the local community. This practice space has been witness to the evolution of the band and stands as a testament to the enduring spirit that propels St. Joseph's Pipe Band forward.

St. Joseph’s Clondalkin Pipe Band marching from Clondalkin to Ballyfermot, and then onto Chapelizod meeting other pipe bands for welcoming the pope to Ireland.

St. Joseph's commitment to its roots is evident in their ongoing use of the Old Nangor Road location for practice. The original shack has been transformed into a secure and warm building, also serving as a local school. This space symbolizes the band's enduring spirit and dedication to the community.

St. Joseph's Pipe Band is more than just a musical group; it embodies the power of passion, resilience, and community spirit. From local events in 1957 to international stages and world championships, their journey continues to blend tradition with innovation, defining the essence of St. Joseph's Pipe Band.