Having been cossetted by COVID-19, Ballinasloe Town Band returned to making music in the recent past with the hosting of outdoor recitals in St Michaels Square each Saturday during July at 12 noon.
These recitals are designed to lighten the gloom which COVID–19 has engendered and restore the spirit of the community within the town. The band has also performed recitals at nursing homes in the town.
In addition, the junior band has recommenced with marching practice at the all weather grounds at St Grellans GAA club grounds. These activities will continue throughout the summer.
Work on the Town Band Hall has also resumed with the lifting of restrictions on building works and good progress has been made since the works recommenced. Works to date include the removal of the entire roof from the rear annex and its replacement with new timbers, insulation and roof covering. In addition, this room has been studded and insulated.
The ceiling of the main hall has been removed and replaced with additional timbers, insulation and it has been plastered and painted to date. The heating, plumbing and electrical fittings have been installed, while the painting of the main hall is near completion.
To date, the band has raised €80k and this has been expended on the renovations and making the mortgage repayments. The Town Bad is in receipt of LEADER funding from Galway Rural Development. To date, this grant aid amounts to €41,995. A further application for additional grant aid awaits decision by GRD.
The Town Bands’ fund raising campaign has also recommenced and the Band has launched its 'RAISE the ROOF' initiative. This campaign is focused on a theme of buy a slate (€50 ) so that the roof can be repaired and made structurally secure and safe.
The Town Band is asking for your support for the Town Band Hall project.
