Band history
While serving in Cologne, Germany, with the Royal Ulster Rifles, a group of men from the Shankill area resolved that upon their return home they would establish their own marching band. In 1966, this vision was realised with the formation of the Sons of Ulster Flute Band, Shankill Road. The name Sons of Ulster was chosen in recognition of the men from the Shankill area who served at the Battle of the Somme in 1916.
The early years
In its early years, the band focused on securing suitable rehearsal facilities and fundraising to enable the purchase of instruments and uniforms. Reflecting the fashions of the time, the band’s first uniform consisted of woollen jumpers paired with bow ties. Recruitment was drawn mainly from the local Shankill community, and the band initially took part in Loyal Order parades throughout Northern Ireland, as well as in Scotland and Liverpool. During this period, the band established strong and lasting friendships with fellow bands, Loyal Orders, and organisations across the United Kingdom.
As membership expanded, the band continued to grow in strength and self-funded successive upgrades to both uniforms and instruments over the years. In the late 1980s, the band began to participate in the emerging competition scene, proudly carrying the name of the Shankill Road across Northern Ireland.
A distinctive musical style
In the early 2000s, the band underwent a significant transformation in its musical style. With the increasing number of competition parades in which the band was involved, a deliberate decision was taken to pioneer a new approach to drumming and fluting. This innovative style set the band apart from the traditional “blood and thunder” sound that had previously been the norm and has since been replicated by bands both locally and further afield.
Connections to the Royal Ulster Rifles
During this period, the band also commissioned a replica of the Royal Ulster Rifles Battle Honours Flag, which is carried on parade in recognition of the band’s deep-rooted connections to the Rifles. This important tradition continues to be upheld to the present day.
Serving the Greater Shankill community
Over its 60-year history, the band has provided residents of the Greater Shankill area with the opportunity to learn musical skills, develop an understanding of their history and culture, and express these in a positive and structured environment. The band has consistently offered young people a safe and welcoming space to form new friendships while educating them on important historical and social issues.
The band remains highly active within the local community. In recent years, members have provided free musical tuition to the local Boys’ Brigade and have also organised and delivered free Christmas dinners to elderly residents within the community.
Sons of Ulster Flute Band, Shankill Road is immensely proud of its history, heritage, and the community it represents.