Founded in 1800, St James’s Brass and Reed Band is Ireland’s oldest band, with early records dating back to 1737. Based in Mount Brown, Dublin 8, the band has played a remarkable role in the city’s history, performing at events associated with figures including Daniel O’Connell and Charles Stewart Parnell, and at the funerals of Michael Collins, Thomas Ashe and O’Donovan Rossa.

In 1917, the band performed the first public rendition of The Soldiers’ Song by a band, which later became Ireland’s national anthem. More recently, St James’s has performed at the National Concert Hall, recorded for RTÉ Radio, and played at Áras an Uachtaráin.

Today, the band has over 50 members and performs a diverse repertoire spanning marches, overtures, popular music and more. This Culture Night, St James’s Brass & Reed Band brings its centuries-old musical tradition to Wood Quay Amphitheatre.

This event is part of the Culture Night Dublin programme at Wood Quay Amphitheatre. Please note that photography and filming will take place throughout the event. By attending, visitors consent to being photographed or filmed unless they notify a member of the Culture Night Dublin team otherwise.