Formed in 1946 from a Boys Brigade Band dating back to 1886: ‘The Band draws its members from all sections of the community in Northern Ireland. Many members live and work in Belfast, whilst some make a round trip of over 100 miles to attend rehearsals two nights a week. Everyone gives of their time freely, as the band is a “subscription” band, other expenses being raised through concerts and fund raising activities organised and promoted by the band themselves ... In 2009 the band created a youth programme to both widen the appeal of the "Old Boys" organisation, and provide the band with a talent pool for future years’.