Bands for All Ages

10/24/2002 -

Ballina’s first All Ages Band Gig takes place this Sunday afternoon. The concept is based around providing young people from the age of 12 upwards with an opportunity to hear live music in a supervised, alcohol-free environment.

The idea is already firmly established in many cities, where the renewed interest in live music – as testified by the growing number of young musicians getting together to form bands - is uncovering some talented young Irish musicians, singers and songwriters.

The All Ages Band Gigs will also provide a stage to young people who work tirelessly at developing their music talent, but who find it difficult to secure a public platform for their abilities in this part of the country.

The first of the weekly gigs is at Downhill House Hotel on Sunday afternoon, 27th October, starting at 3.30p.m.

Ballina band Menticide sets the ball rolling. Comprising guitarist and singer Philip Cassidy, guitarist John Loftus, bassist Thomas Woods and drummer John Henry, the band play a mix of originals and covers, with influences ranging across the spectrum of rock genres from Thin Lizzy and Slipknot, to The Sex Pistols and Metallica.

The All Ages Band Gigs will continue during much of the winter months, offering young people an option to the few other recreational facilities around on a Sunday afternoon.