Performer Focus – Hunter Moore Memorial Flute Band, Newry

Celebrating it’s 140th anniversary last year, the Hunter Moore Memorial Flute Band was formed in 1884 on the northern outskirts of Newry by a farmer and former soldier, Joseph Ferris.  Originally known as Sheepbridge Flute Band the band had fairly humble beginnings holding its weekly practices in a barn on its former founder’s farm.  The band moved to its current home on the Belfast Road in Newry in 1908 when highly respected local solicitor, John Hunter Moore, granted them use of a single storey cottage which became known locally as “The Hut”, a name which has stuck with the band and by which it is still referred as today.In 1923 the band changed its name to Hunter Moore Memorial when its benefactor passed away.

The band is a member of the NIBA and FBA and competes at senior level.  In addition to contests, the band carries out a range of engagements every year including concerts, church services, charity events and traditional parades.  Their members come from all walks of life and range in age from 8 to 82 years old. It currently has five members with over 50 years’ service to the band, several of whom will be performing at this year’s Tattoo.

Having previously taken part in the second Belfast International Tattoo in 2014, the band is very much looking forward to taking part again in this year’s event.