Belfast Bands perform at Ulster Museum for the first time

Three marching bands have performed in the Ulster Museum for the first time ever. The Ballycoan Flute Band, the Sons of Ulster Flute Band, and the Boys Model School Flute Band filled the Ulster Museum with a range of melodies that showcased their musicianship.  The bands were in attendance as part of an event entitled The Belfast Bands Forum: Culture, Community and Belonging, developed through creative collaboration between National Museums NI and the Forum.  

National Museums NI has followed the Belfast Bands Forum over the past 12 months, documenting its activities and conducting interviews with its members to create a film about the music, tradition and the community behind the bands entitled Behind the Beat. It is available to watch on YouTube. 

Marching bands are an important part of Northern Ireland’s cultural fabric and represent one of Europe’s largest voluntary arts movements with approximately 20,000 participants involved across 600 or so bands. Their sustained presence demonstrates the importance of such living traditions across Northern Ireland.  However, bands have battled damaging stereotypes for decades and the community benefits they deliver such as musical skills development improved mental wellbeing are regularly overlooked.  

William Blair, Director of Collections at National Museums NI, explained that conflict often leaves behind a legacy of prejudice, something that must be addressed to help build mutual understanding and respect. He said, 

“Stereotypes formed during or as a result of conflict inevitably continue beyond the formal peace agreement itself. They are grounded within deeply entrenched social and political division, transgenerational trauma, and negative preconceptions. Identity in Northern Ireland is complex and evolving, but this is a society where traditions still matter.  

“Ulster Museum is a place that belongs to everyone and embraces identity in all its diversity. We are pleased to partner with the Belfast Bands Forum and grateful for the trust they have placed in us. This creative collaboration aims to promote greater understanding of the role bands play in preserving musical heritage, facilitating cultural expression, and providing people with a greater sense of belonging and identity.”  

As part of the partnership, a new display has been installed in the Troubles and Beyond Gallery at the Ulster Museum. It showcases loans and donations from bands across Northern Ireland including South Belfast Young Conquerors Flute Band badges, jacket, band shirt and belt; Andante MB snare drumsticks; a Rea flute; a Sons of Ulster hat and a mini bass drum.  

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Darren Leighton, Chairman of the Belfast Bands Forum, said that support from National Museums NI marked a significant opportunity to break down barriers. He said, 

“The positive work that occurs as a result of the bands is very often undervalued as preconceived ideas overshadow the more diverse reality. The Belfast Bands Forum is building a new narrative by showcasing the very best of our culture and highlighting the incredible musical heritage and talent that exists in Northern Ireland. By doing so, we can encourage enhanced understanding and bring about greater community cohesion. 

“This partnership with National Museums NI has provided an additional platform for us to tell our story and connect with people in new ways. Everyone has the right to cultural expression, and in Northern Ireland this is especially true. We want everyone to have the opportunity to understand and engage with our traditions.” 

A panel discussion, facilitated by author, community worker and band member Glenn Millar, was held as part of the event, focusing on the complex themes of culture and identity. William and Darren were joined by Sarah Bunting - DUP Councillor for Belfast City Council, Mervyn Gibson - Grand Secretary of the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland, and Lee Reynolds - Commissioner for the Ulster Scots and the Ulster British tradition. 

The discussion was an opportunity to reflect on the importance of cultural expression and the role of museums in post-conflict societies.  William said, 

“In a place where identity is deeply personal yet politically significant, museums are places that can connect the past with the present, offering perspectives on contemporary issues and challenges. Our shared spaces and our diverse collections provide stimulus for reflection and dialogue – all of which is crucial in building a shared future based on respect and greater mutual understanding. 

“As we host this event in partnership with the Belfast Bands Form, elsewhere in the museum we are simultaneously hosting Spórtlann na hÉireann’s GaelStair project, and an exhibition How Do You Create a Community? The Inspiring Story of Belfast’s First Urban Gaeltacht is currently on show. The exhibition traces the journey of a group of pioneering young couples in 1960s Belfast who took the decision to establish an Irish-speaking community at Shaws Road. Across the breadth and depth of our exhibitions and programmes at the Ulster Museum, we are committed to demonstrating our core principle that museums are for everyone and everyone is welcome.”