TWO of Strabane’s finest brass bands will open the Strabane Summer Jamm Festival at the Alley Theatre on Friday, June 9.
Strabane is renowned across Ireland as a brass band town, a reputation built by St Joseph’s Brass Band and the Strabane Concert Brass, this Strabane brass band will come together (under the direction of local man Noel Barr), leading the way for a night of music by local musicians, schools and clubs.
The concert will feature Omagh born soprano Gerarda McCann, who studied at the renowned Trinity College of Music in London and worked professionally in Australia before returning to Ireland, where she is in constant demand as a vocal soloist.
The Mayor of the Derry City and Strabane District, Alderman Hilary McClintock said she was looking forward to the concert and commended the local music community for getting involved with the Summer Jamm Festival. She said:
“This will be a night to remember and a great way to begin the weekend festival. The local music community work tirelessly throughout the year to educate our young musicians and encourage them to perform their work.
“I’d ask everyone to come along and celebrate their efforts, enjoy a wonderful night of music and kick of the Strabane Summer Jamm Festival in style!”
The Brass Workshop, who form part of the band youth initiative, inspired and run by Amanda McGinley will also perform in the evening as part of the concert.
Tommy Barr from The Strabane Brass Bands said, “The band is indebted to Amanda and Marie for this fantastic youth initiative, youth bands are essential for the future of Brass Bands in our town.
“This will be a great opportunity for our youngsters to perform in front of a local audience.
“This event brings together the work of our local musicians, who work throughout the year to service the local community.
“The yearlong brass workshops have enabled our younger people and teenagers to develop music skills and confidence.
“It is great they now have this opportunity to showcase their work on the grand stage and remind our local community why these workshops are important.”
The concert is part of the three day Summer Jamm Music Festival in Strabane from 9th to 11th June.
The family friendly festival will continue throughout the weekend with a busking competition, the Strabane BID Company concert, headlined by Irish rockers ‘The Blizzards’ on Saturday evening, a Country Jamm Concert on Sunday, street entertainment throughout the weekend and a Strabane Market on Friday.
Tickets are now available for the Strabane Brass Bands Concert at the Alley Theatre and cost £5.00 per person.
The event takes place on Friday 9th June from 8.00pm.
For more information the Strabane Summer Jamm Festival and how to book tickets, visit www.derrystrabane.com/SummerJamm or contact the Alley Theatre Box Office by telephoning 028 7138 4444.
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