Skip Navigation

Ballyclare Young Flautists

30 May 2018

Talented pupils continue school success

Ballyclare High School has a long and rich tradition of music-making in the local community and beyond.  Past pupils have progressed to careers in music across the world and many have continued their passion for music in local groups such as Ballyclare Male Voice Choir, The Clare Chorale and Ballyclare Victoria Flute Band.

To meet the enthusiasm of pupils interested in playing flute, an established flute ensemble has been developed into a larger group. With support from Ballyclare Victoria Flute Band, Ballymena Young Conquerors and Kellswater Flute Band this has grown to a group of 20 young musicians. The Ulster Scots Agency is pleased to support the school through the loan of some instruments to augment those already available.

 Music played reflects Ulster Scots heritage such as Carrickfergus, The Isle of Innisfree, The Green Glens of Antrim, etc.  Marches such as Moore Street and The Pacer are also part of our repertoire and are also associated with the marching band tradition in Northern Ireland. 

 Ballyclare High School is believed to be the only school in Northern Ireland currently involved in this type of initiative and recently won Section 4 of the Flute Band Association’s Own Choice competition.  Forthcoming events are a concert in partnership with Ballyclare Victoria Flute Band in autumn 2018.

 The planned addition of percussion will be a welcome addition. The ensemble recently performed at the Discover Ulster Scots Centre in the Corn Exchange Belfast.