Drogheda Brass Band has made history by winning their 16th title at the National Brass Band Championships of Ireland.

It saw the band set a new benchmark, with the victory topping the previous record of 15 they jointly held with Arklow Silver Band.

The event, held at the Ardee Concert Band's Bohemian Centre, was organised by the Irish Association of Brass and Concert Bands (IABCB) and brought together the best brass and concert bands from across Ireland to showcase their talents adjudicated by Dr Jonathan Corry.

Evolution win

Under the baton of Stephen Murray, Drogheda delivered a fine performance of Philip Sparke's 'Evolution: Five States of Change' as their test piece. Their "exceptional musicality and precision"earned 188 points from Dr Corry to narrowly edge out Navan Silver Band conducted by Kevin Teers, with Lourdes Brass in third.

Adding to their accolades, Drogheda's soprano player, Luke Murphy claimed the 'Best Instrumentalist' accolade his outstanding personal performance.

Delight

Expressing his delight Drogheda Band Vice-Chairperson, Brian Murphy said: "The level of competition this year was exceptional. Every band brought their best and it was an honour to come out as winners in a great contest."

Victory not only underscored Drogheda's excellence but also sets a new benchmark in the history of the championships.

Arklow victory

In Section 2, Brass Arklow Silver Band made a welcome return to the competition having last performed in 2016.

Conducted by Stephen Smith, who was making his contest conducting debut, they performed Philip Sparke's 'Malvern Suite' to edge out Irish National Foresters Brass Band conducted by Mark Nutley who performed 'Dark Side of the Moon'.

The level of competition this year was exceptional. Every band brought their best and it was an honour to come out as winners in a great contestDrogheda Band

Results:

Section 1 Brass:

Adjudicator: Dr Jonathan Corry
Set Work: Evolution Five States of Change (Philip Sparke)

1. Drogheda Brass (Stephen Murray): 188
2. Navan Silver (Kevin Teers): 186
3. Lourdes Brass (Gavin Warren): 185

Best Soloist: Luke Murphy (soprano) — Drogheda Brass

Section 2 Brass:

Adjudicator: Dr Jonathan Corry
Own Choice

1. Arklow Silver Band (Stephen Smith): 186
2. Irish National Foresters Brass (Mark Nutley): 184