Ballymena Young Conquerors to host annual concert with stellar line-up

The Ballymena Young Conquerors Concert Flute Band, a cornerstone of the town’s cultural heritage since its founding in 1886, will hold its much-anticipated annual concert at West Church, Ballymena, on Saturday, 26 April 2025.

As the longest-surviving musical ensemble in the region, the band continues to captivate audiences with its rich history and vibrant performances, promising an evening of exceptional entertainment.

Formed nearly 140 years ago as a traditional marching band with fife and drum, the Young Conquerors have evolved into a sophisticated flute orchestra. Today, the ensemble boasts an impressive array of instruments, including C Piccolo, G Trebles, C Concerts, Altos, C Basses, Contra Alto, Contra Basses, and a full complement of percussion.

This transformation reflects the band’s commitment to musical innovation while honouring its deep-rooted traditions.

Under the expert direction of conductor Andrew Douglas, a Ballygowan native and graduate of the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, the band has reached new heights.

Douglas, a distinguished flautist and piccolo player with the Ulster Orchestra and RTÉ Concert Orchestra, brings a wealth of experience to the ensemble. His accolades include winning the Northern Ireland Young Musician of the Year, the 2019 Young Musicians Platform Award, the Flax Trust Arts Bursary, and support from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland. His leadership ensures the band delivers performances of the highest calibre.

The concert will feature a diverse repertoire, showcasing the band’s versatility with a blend of traditional tunes, marches, classical pieces, popular music, and selections from stage and screen. This eclectic programme is designed to appeal to audiences of all ages, guaranteeing a memorable evening.

Adding to the excitement, the Young Conquerors will be joined by an impressive line-up of guest performers. The Ballymoney & District Male Voice Choir, who recently hosted the band at their annual concert in Ballymoney Town Hall earlier this month, will reciprocate the visit, bringing their renowned harmonies to Ballymena.

The event will also feature local piping sensation Ken Stewart, a former All-Ireland champion (1985) and multiple-time Ulster Championship winner, celebrated for his victory in the Class B Piobaireachd event in Glasgow in the early 1980s. A young drum corps from Lisburn will further enhance the evening, showcasing the region’s emerging talent.

The Ballymena Young Conquerors are no strangers to the spotlight. The band is a regular participant in competitions, church events, and community gatherings across Northern Ireland. Their performances have been broadcast on television and featured on BBC Radio Ulster’s Bandstand and Strike up the Band programmes, cementing their reputation as one of the region’s premier musical groups.

The concert will commence at 7:30pm, with doors opening at 7:00pm. Subscription is £10, payable on the night, offering excellent value for an evening of great entertainment.

Organisers encourage early arrival to secure seating in the historic West Church, a fitting venue for this celebration of musical excellence.

For residents of Ballymena and beyond, the Young Conquerors’ annual concert is a highlight of the cultural calendar, offering a chance to experience the enduring legacy of one of Northern Ireland’s most cherished musical institutions. Whether drawn by the band’s storied history, the guest performers, or the promise of a varied and engaging programme, attendees are assured an unforgettable night.

For further information, contact the Ballymena Young Conquerors Concert Flute Band through their official channels.

Published: 20 April 2025