FROM WITHIN THE CIRCLE

John Daly leads the drum corps.

The Pipe Band says farewell to a stalwart and welcomes new members, writes Secretary John McNally. A s noted in previous articles from the band, we are still in a very quiet period due to the ongoing pandemic. The good news, however, is that the band have been back at regular practice since the start of June. The lifting of restrictions, good weather and long evenings have allowed us to meet and practice once again outdoors. We hope to continue with practice throughout the summer period and hope to get back indoors when the lifting of restrictions allows.

A FAREWELL

Sunday, 6 June saw the retirement of Station Officer and DFB Pipe Band drummer John Daly from the Dublin Fire Brigade after a long and distinguished career. John is a stalwart of the band and has assumed the role of Chairman, Secretary and Drum Sergeant over his many years.

John was piped onto his last parade by DPB Pipe Band solo piper Mark Toner. This was followed by a ‘Flashmob’ style appearance from the band. John was genuinely surprised, and it almost brought a tear to his eye!

The band played a number of sets and then the Drum Corps played a drum salute for John called “Salute to Bronco”. This is a drum salute written in memory of Durrell ‘Bronco’ Pearsall, who died at the World Trade Centre on 9/11 - Bronco was a drummer in the FDNY’s Emerald Society Pipe and Drum Band, and a friend of the DFB Pipe Band and John Daly. Finally, the band played one more set with John leading the drummers on his side drum. The band would like to wish John, Ann and family the very best with a long, happy and healthy retirement.

ACTIVITIES

Solo pipers have been busy over the past few months with engagements such as the State Commemoration ceremony for the 100th anniversary of the burning of the Custom House, funerals of retired members and retirement parades.

We recently visited recruit class 1/2021 in order to tell them about the band and what we do. As always, we encourage new members to join the band and hopefully some of the newest members of the DFB will sign up soon.

NEW MEMBERS

As has been said many times in past articles, we are always here to welcome new members to the band. New blood is vital to ensure that the band survives into the future. Whether its piping or drumming you may be interested in (maybe you would like to try both) the door is always open to new members. So, if you think you have what it takes or would like to give it a try, why not come along to the Training Centre any

The band playing at John Daly’s retirement last parade . John with his snare drum.

Monday night from 8pm and learn a new instrument? Beginners are very welcome and musical ability is not necessary.

We would also like to welcome previous members back as well as people who may already have piping or drumming experience. You will be given top class instruction by our two world class instructors Dave Rickard (Bagpipes) and Ciaran Mordaunt (Drums). (We would also like to wish Ciaran well after a recent illness, get well soon Ciaran.)

The band are forever grateful for the support of associate members, DFB management and DCC. Without that continued support the band could not exist.

The band can be reached at any time through any band member, social media or by emailing: dfbpbsec@gmail.com