A school with a long tradition
Founded in 1857, Belfast Boys’ Model School is a non-selective all-boys post-primary school with a long tradition of serving the local community. Alongside its broad academic and vocational curriculum, the school places a strong emphasis on personal development, respect, and community engagement. Music has long played an important role in school life, with pupils achieving recognition through the school’s award-winning choir, internationally recognised DJs, and continued commitment to traditional music.
Flutes and drums at the Model
The Belfast Boys’ Model Flutes and Drums is a proud extra-curricular part of the school’s Music Department. The ensemble is made up of pupils from across the school, many of whom already perform in bands outside school while continuing to dedicate their time and commitment to the school group alongside their studies. Through rehearsals and performances, the band provides pupils with opportunities to develop musical skill, discipline, teamwork, and pride in their shared traditions.
School occasions and public performances
Throughout the school year, the band performs at a variety of important school occasions, including annual Remembrance Assemblies, the School Carol Service, and the Music Department’s Spring Concert. The group has also represented the school at a number of prestigious public events. These have included the official opening of the Museum of Orange Heritage, attended by the Lord Lieutenant of the County Borough of Belfast, performances at Custom House Square during St Patrick’s Day celebrations, and participation in the Christmas lights switch-on at Victoria Square.
Connecting across Belfast
Most recently, the band has continued to build connections across Belfast’s cultural and tourism sectors. Working alongside the Belfast Bands Forum, the pupils have performed at Assembly Buildings, taken part in Tourism NI events at the Waterfront Hall and Titanic Belfast, and participated in Commonwealth celebrations at Belfast City Hall. They also collaborated in a performance recorded by Love Belfast to promote the Showcase of Marching Bands taking place during Fleadh 2026.
A varied musical repertoire
Musically, the boys perform a varied repertoire that reflects both local and wider musical traditions. Their performances include corps of drums style marches, traditional Irish and Scottish arrangements, and wartime classics, celebrating the enduring influence of marching band culture within Belfast and beyond.