Inis Fada Pipe Band

About the band

We have been sponsored by the Irish American Society of Nassau, Suffolk and Queens for 40 years. The band was originally formed by Pipe Major Emeritus James Hagan, Pipe Sergeant James O’Donnell (deceased), Drum Sergeant James Nilan, and band secretary Tom Breen, in 1959.

We made our debut as the lead band in the Hempstead (3now Garden City) St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 12, 1961. Believe it or not, there are still a few original members active in today’s band.
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Over the years, the band has distinguished itself in many different arenas. Inis Fada Gaelic has achieved Northeastern United States Champion in both the Grade II and Grade III competition circles.

We have recently achieved Northeastern United States Champions in the Grade IV competition circle. We have entertained many gala events in New York City and in Washington DC. Our most memorable event was playing at the Embassy Balls at the Irish Embassy in Washington DC and the Presidential Fundraisers at the National Armory.

Most of the originally members have retired, but the tradition of top level competition is maintained by the second generation of pipers and drummers. The sons and daughters of the original band members, along with a healthy infusion of experienced newcomers, have largely taken over the band.

With the recent retirement of Pipe Major Ed McKenna, who has expertly guided the band for the past 20 years, Inis Fada Gaelic has largely been taken over by the younger generation.

The current band officers can be found on the Members page.

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