Maghery Band secure seventh Easter Title in style during Dungloe celebrations

Maghery Band celebrated a spectacular return to the senior fife competition section on Easter Sunday in Dungloe, successfully defending their title and securing their seventh Easter Title in style during the Easter in Dungloe celebrations.

The band were among 11 bands invited to take part in the impressive Rosses Fifers Unite spectacle and was honoured to have both of their senior bands participating on the day.

The specially assembled “super band” drew huge applause from the crowds lining the streets and was deservedly awarded Best Band on Parade, adding to what would become a remarkable day for the Maghery Bands.

Meanwhile, the competing senior Maghery band delivered a performance of exceptional quality and precision. Their efforts were rewarded with Best Music, Best Drum Corps, and Best Drum Major, alongside first place in their competitive section. The band’s second senior band also secured second place in the non-competitive section - a strong showing that highlighted the depth of talent within the small village.

READ NEXT: In pictures: Style in no short supply at Raphoe Royal & Prior's sixth-year prom

From the moment Drum Major Annemarie O’Donnell issued her opening commands, anticipation rippled through the crowd as the nine-time All-Ireland champions prepared to showcase their latest performance.

Each year, Maghery Band raises expectations by introducing new musical arrangements, sharper drill movements, and crowd-pleasing visual moments, like confetti explosions, and 2026 proved no exception.

The unmistakable introduction of “Thunderstruck” set the tone early, and when the bass beat dropped, the band stepped confidently into formation, powering forward with energy and precision as they marched toward retaining their Easter crown. A spine-tingling rendition of Riverdance once again proved a highlight, drawing an enthusiastic response from spectators and reinforcing the band’s reputation for combining musical excellence with visual impact.

Maghery’s seamless blend of music, drill, and drumming created a performance that was both technically impressive and hugely entertaining. Particularly noteworthy was the composure and confidence shown by its younger members, for some, it was their first ever competition appearance, a testament to the strength of teamwork within the band and the dedication of its instructors and committee behind them.

With rumours already circulating about a headline appearance at another major Tattoo later this year, Maghery Band now turns its focus toward the upcoming All-Ireland Championships. The group will be aiming to defend their title once again as they pursue what would be a historic ten-in-a-row All-Ireland victory, a feat never before achieved by any marching band.