History

Founded in 1941, Cullen Pipe Band (originally known as "Cullen Piper’s Band") has been a vital part of the local community, growing from modest beginnings to international acclaim. The band’s roots trace back to Paddy Fitzgerald’s home in Mologhroe, where local postman and musician Micheal Rea inspired a group of young men to learn the practice chanter. Under his guidance, they progressed to the bagpipes, with their first instruments costing £6.13s.6d. Mr. Baker from C.I.E. coached the drummers, and Dineen’s Hall became a central practice space in those early days.

As the band developed, uniforms made by Paddy Fitzgerald and others were proudly worn for the first time around 1943 on Laitiaran Day, blessed by Fr. Griffin. They featured army-style tunics and green tartan kilts, marking the band's presence at local events such as the Knocknagree Races and Feis Laitiaran. Over time, the band became a fixture at carnivals, parades, and political events, including a memorable tour in 1951 where they led a parade for Eamon de Valera across three towns in Kerry in a single day.

The band went through a quiet period from the mid-60s to early 70s but was revived in 1971 by Teddy Goulding and Johnny Fleming. On St. Laitiaran’s Day 1972, they performed for the first time in nearly a decade. The reformed band introduced new uniforms, instruments, and a renewed dedication to excellence, earning first place in their first piping contest in Limerick in 1982. The 1980s saw an influx of young talent, structured lessons, and external tutors that helped elevate the band’s performance level. By the 1990s, Cullen Pipe Band had made significant achievements, winning Champion of Champions in Grade 4 (1995) and the All-Ireland Championship in Grade 4 (1998).

In 2001, marking their 60th anniversary, the band debuted new uniforms and proudly performed in New York's St. Patrick's Parade. Success continued, with notable victories like the World Championship in Grade 3B (2007) and the All-Ireland Championship in Grade 2 (2012), marking Cullen as one of the top bands in the competitive sphere. The band's participation in Grade 2 attracted musicians from across Munster and beyond, raising its standards further.

Since 2014, Cullen Pipe Band has focused on nurturing local talent, competing in Grade 5 and winning the East of Ireland Championship in 2016, the same year it celebrated its 75th anniversary. The band remains dedicated to honoring its rich heritage and developing the next generation of pipers and drummers for continued success.