Made to Parade

Made to Parade | Regimental Flute Band UVF East Belfast – 56 Years On The Road 

Episode 96 – Flute Band Church Belfast | Pip & Rev RossIn this episode of Made to Parade, we're joined by Pip and Rev Ross to talk about an exciting new initiative: Flute Band Church Belfast.Building on the inspiring success of St Mark's Church in Portadown – which featured in a previous episode – Pip and Rev Ross share their vision for creating a space in Belfast where members of the marching band community can explore faith, fellowship, and music in a way that's relevant, welcoming, and rooted in their culture.We discuss the origins of the idea, how the work in Portadown has helped shape this new project, and what lies ahead as they prepare to launch in Belfast.Whether you're a regular listener or new to the podcast, this is a powerful and passionate conversation about community, calling, and connection – and how the band scene continues to inspire new expressions of faith.

Episode 95 – Ahoghill Loyal Sons of William Flute Band: 40 Years on Parade 

Made to Parade episode 94 - Ewan David & Ulster Accordion Bands

In this episode of Made to Parade, we sit down with Wayne Carmichael to hear his incredible journey—from growing up in Woodvale and watching bands as a kid, to leading and shaping some of the most well-known bands in the country.

In this episode, we sit down with Quincey Dougan, the driving force behind Bygone Days, a unique venture dedicated to educating and promoting the rich traditions of Orangeism, Unionism, and Loyalism. Join us as Quincey shares his personal journey, the inspiration behind Bygone Days, and the challenges of keeping these cultural and historical legacies alive in a modern, diverse society. With a fly-on-the-wall insight into his work, we explore how he balances education with advocacy, navigates contentious perceptions, and works to engage both younger generations and broader audiences. Expect an edgy, thought-provoking conversation that delves into the complexities of heritage, identity, and tradition in Northern Ireland. Whether you're deeply connected to these traditions or just curious to learn more, this episode offers an honest and insightful perspective on a side of history often overlooked.

Marching Forward: Faith, Bands, and a Changed Life Welcome to a powerful and thought-provoking episode of the podcast! In this episode, we sit down with two members of loyalist marching bands who share their incredible journeys of becoming born-again Christians.

In this episode of Made to Parade, we take a closer look at two of Northern Ireland's flute bands as they share about their big moment performing at the 2024 Belfast International Tattoo. From rehearsals to performance day, we explore the challenges, the dedication, and what it takes to put on a show at this prestigious event. Join us as we hear from band leaders Nigel & William about their experiences, the obstacles they overcame, and the pride they felt representing their bands. It's an honest look at the hard work behind the scenes, the emotional highs and lows, and the satisfaction of delivering a memorable performance. If you enjoy learning about the dedication and craft of marching bands, this episode will offer great insight. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell to stay up-to-date with future Made to Parade episodes!

Made to Parade Podcast - Episode 86: Pitch Perfect Event Coverage | Ulster Day 2024 In this special episode, Made to Parade takes you to the heart of the Pitch Perfect event, held on Ulster Day, 28th September 2024. This episode captures the excitement and pride of the day, featuring interviews with the event organiser, representatives from participating bands, and insights from the Ulster-Scots Agency. Tune in to hear about the significance of the event, the preparations behind the scenes, and the passion of the bands that took part. Experience the powerful performances, historical reflections, and community spirit that made Pitch Perfect an unforgettable celebration. Whether you're a fan of marching bands, cultural events, or Ulster-Scots heritage, this episode brings you the stories and sounds from a memorable day in Northern Ireland. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes, and let us know your thoughts in the comments!

Made to Parade Podcast - Episode with Harry McArthur (Queen Elizabeth Accordion Band) In this special episode, we're joined by Harry McArthur, a living legend of the band scene. With an incredible 75 years of service, Harry has been a dedicated member of the Queen Elizabeth Accordion Band in Scotland. As the band approaches its centenary in just 12 years, Harry reflects on the band's rich history, his personal experiences, and the evolving world of band music. Tune in to hear captivating stories from a lifetime in the band and gain unique insights from one of its most iconic figures.

Episode 84: Ulster's Blood and Soil: A Journey to the Somme | Made to Parade Podcast In this special episode of Made to Parade, we take you on an emotional journey through history as we explore the deep and lasting connection between Ulster and the Battle of the Somme. Join us at the Somme Museum in Conlig, where we uncover the powerful stories of the 36th (Ulster) Division—ordinary men who faced extraordinary challenges during one of the bloodiest battles of World War I. From the trenches to the Ulster Memorial Tower, this episode delves into the enduring legacy of the men who gave everything for Ulster's future. Through interviews and reflections on the impact of the Somme on Northern Ireland's identity, we explore how this pivotal moment in history shaped the spirit and resolve of Ulster. Whether you're passionate about history, Northern Irish culture, or the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom, this episode offers a fresh perspective on the significance of the Somme and its lasting place in Ulster's soul.

In this third episode of the Tunes that Changed the Scene series, we dive deep into a tune by Glenmavis Sons of William Flute Band from their iconic 1986 cassette, Black Velvet.

Made to Parade Podcast: Pride of the Shore Flute Band's Theatrical Journey | Episode 82

New Episode Alert! The latest episode of the Made to Parade podcast arrives tomorrow, and it's a special one! We're diving into a chat with Orangeman Darren Shufflebottom about the vibrant 12th July celebrations. Join us as we both explore our thoughts and reflections on the rich traditions, the parades, and some of our personal stories behind this iconic event. Whether you're a seasoned participant or just curious about this cultural gem, this episode has something for everyone!Tune in now and march along with us on this fascinating journey! #MadeToParade #12thJuly #NorthernIreland #CulturalCelebration #PodcastEpisode #Tradition #paradelife

In this episode of the Made to Parade podcast, we are joined by Phil Brett MLA and political activist Moore Holmes. They discuss the crucial reasons why the unionist community in Northern Ireland should make their voices heard by participating in the upcoming general election. Key Topics Discussed: The impact of voting on the unionist community's representation How political participation influences policy and governance The significance of each vote in shaping the future of Northern Ireland

Get ready for an inspiring new episode of the Made to Parade podcast, featuring the legendary Lisa Williamson!

The second episode in our new season finds us in conversation with Mark Roxborough from the Maiden City Garrison Fife and Lambeg Drumming Club. There is a rich historical tradition surrounding fife and Lambeg drumming in Northern Ireland and a tradition that more and more people are starting to reconnect with. Mark talks us through how the Garrison started and some of the events that they have been involved in and the benefits that has brought to personal lives and also the wider community. With the rich tradition of flute bands throughout the country this is another means for community musicians to connect with their culture and ensure that it doesn't die out. A big thank you to Mark for taking the time to share and the whole team at New Gate Arts and Culture Centre for allowing us to use the premises to record the episode. Join us next week when we speak to Lisa Williamson.

"Welcome to the exciting new season of the Made to Parade podcast! Join us as we kick off with an exclusive interview featuring Belfast County Grand Master, Spencer Beattie, diving deep into the engagement with marching bands in Belfast. Discover how this collaborative approach is reshaping the orders of the day for this year's 12th of July celebrations. From insightful discussions to behind-the-scenes insights, this episode promises to be a must-watch for all marching band enthusiasts and anyone interested in the cultural significance of the 12th of July festivities. Don't miss out - tune in now and be part of the conversation!"

Episode 75 takes a brief look at the CGL decision to not change the 12th route for 2024. I discuss a little about if that is a good decision or not and what other options the CGL now have to address what they clearly see as issues with the 12th in its current state.

This months episode finds us in conversation with Derek Moore from the William King Memorial Flute Band and member of the North West Cultural Partnership. We follow up on the topic introduced in episode 73 regarding the CGLB proposal to introduce an approved bands register. Derek was a part of the team that drew up the Maiden City Accord, a collaborative document that sought to regulate parades in Londonderry, here he shares his knowledge and provides some advice that might make the CGLB document more appealing and collaborative.

This episode is in response to the document released by the Belfast County Grand Lodge who are trying to establish an approved bands register for marching bands that are engaged by the Orange lodges in Belfast. I go through the rationale for the document as well as the process of application and the rules that bands are expected to sign up to and the consequences if they do not. This video has my personal opinions in this and I did not seek to get the thoughts of the County Grand Lodge before I recorded. I did approach the county in July about doing an interview and they politely declined. I don't normally do this type of video, but I felt that I had to with this subject. Please like comment and subscribe to the channel.

This months podcast finds us in conversation with author, historian, TV and Radio show host David Hume. David is passionate about sharing the positives of our history and heritage and was instrumental in the openings of the two Museums of Orange Heritage. He has a wealth of historical knowledge that he seems to be able to just draw on any subject at any time and can explain things in very down to earth way. This interview took place a few days before the first episode of The Long and the Short of it went out on BBC and all episodes are now available on iPlayer. We talk about everything from the importance of knowing your history and culture, bands and the origins of parades as well as partition, education, slavery, the union, bands, and a whole host of other things. There really is something for everyone. We will be back again in October for another episode, make sure you subscribe so you never miss an episode of the Made to Parade Podcast.

The Made to Parade podcast is back! This is a special episode featuring the Grand Secretary of the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland, Mervyn Gibson. I caught up with Mervyn after the 12th to talk about a few issues that had come up just prior to the big day, namely the leaked documents concerning discussions around a potential change to the Belfast 12th parade route and a proposal to have an approved bands register for the Belfast County lodges. Both of these topics generated a lot of debate in the days leading up to the 12th. Now that the dust has settled a little, Made to Parade thought it would be a good idea to sit down with Mervyn and discuss these two topics. Mervyn shares his own opinions on both and states that while he cannot speak for Belfast County, he does have something to contribute to the discussion. The conversation was quite spontaneous and there may be points that are not covered in lots of detail, however it was an open, honest and frank conversation. I want to thank Mervyn for giving his time to come and chat with me and  share his opinions, it was a great privilege to have him come to the studio and be a part of the podcasts comeback. There is still plenty of discussion to be had on these two topics and over the months that lie ahead I am sure we will talk further with other bands men and lodge members. But for now welcome back to the podcast and I hope you enjoy the conversation with Mervyn.

The Made to Parade podcast is back! This is a special episode featuring the Grand Secretary of the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland, Mervyn Gibson. I caught up with Mervyn after the 12th to talk about a few issues that had come up just prior to the big day, namely the leaked documents concerning discussions around a potential change to the Belfast 12th parade route and a proposal to have an approved bands register for the Belfast County lodges. Both of these topics generated a lot of debate in the days leading up to the 12th. Now that the dust has settled a little, Made to Parade thought it would be a good idea to sit down with Mervyn and discuss these two topics. Mervyn shares his own opinions on both and states that while he cannot speak for Belfast County, he does have something to contribute to the discussion. The conversation was quite spontaneous and there may be points that are not covered in lots of detail, however it was an open, honest and frank conversation. I want to thank Mervyn for giving his time to come and chat with me and  share his opinions, it was a great privilege to have him come to the studio and be a part of the podcasts comeback. There is still plenty of discussion to be had on these two topics and over the months that lie ahead I am sure we will talk further with other bands men and lodge members. But for now welcome back to the podcast and I hope you enjoy the conversation with Mervyn.

The final episode of the podcast before we move to a completely new idea and approach. Looking at some of the best bits over the 70 episodes, sharing some funny stories and 2 give aways!! I really hope you have all enjoyed the podcast and that you will keep up with the new thing Made to Parade will be doing. Have a safe and enjoyable 11th and 12th July folks, see you all again in September for the Late night with Made to Parade chat show!Thanks to our Patreon Patrons for their continued support and our sponsors over the 2 years, British Drum Company and Drumchapel Red Hand Comrades.Over and out!Keep Marching on!www.madetoparade.commadetoparadebook@gmail.com

Releasing new music is alway an exciting and scary thing - whether you're an old hand at it or your first album, putting your music out there always carries a risk.For their 60th anniversary the Whiterock flute band release their 3rd album with a host of tunes on there, and all of them never recorded by the band before.I met up with Thomas McAllister again to talk about the recording process, the time in the studio, and releasing the CD, we also took the time to catch up on band life since his last episode.We also listened to 5 tracks from the new album.Thank you to Thomas for joining the podcast again to share with us, I think you will agree that we recorded a great conversation together.Make sure you check out the bands new album on Apple Music, Amazon Music and Spotify.The next episode will be the very last one before we move to a new format so make sure you check it out.Till next time, look after yourselves, take it easy and keep marching on.

This weeks episode is a little different - the show features podcast host, Glenn Millar, sharing some of his thoughts an experiences over the past month or two as well as outlining the plans for the future of Made to Parade.Glenn shares a little of why there have been some gaps in between episodes as wells sharing some of his recent experiences on parades with his band, Pride of the Raven.He shares some thoughts on current issues of the day and then some of the ideas for the future of the show.There will be two new strands, Late night with Made to Parade, a chat show style programme and "Bandter" a podcast featuring band members, shooting the breeze with each other and capturing those convos that happen when we are all out with the band.There will hopefully be two more full episodes of the podcast to come before then and we hope to feature the new CD's from the Whiterock FB and Greengairs FB in a listening party type approach and then another episode with a band member, and maybe a surprise episode as well.Thank you again to everyone who faithfully listens in to the podcast and to our sponsors and patrons, we really do value your support.Until next time, look after yourselves, take it easy and keep marching on.

So here we are, finally with episode 9 of Season 6! There has been a lot going on for me in the lead up to getting another episode out, apologies that it is much later than usual, a few things have happened that have just meant that I have had no time at all to focus on new episodes.I was grateful for Nathan getting in touch to do an episode for the podcast and unfortunately I was plagued with a disastrous internet connection on the night and my camera and mic had issues throughout the conversation.Hopefully what we have captured gives you a flavour of Nathan's band story and how he is Made to Parade. It was great to hear Nathan talking about being inspired by the podcast and indeed previous guests.Our next episode is due to feature Airdrie Grenadiers, and then we will hopefully have a CD launch episode featuring members of Whiterock and Greengairs talking about their new CD's as well as previewing some tracks from both.Our final episode will be an update on the new plans for the future and hopefully a few conversations with some previous guests, so make are you keep an eye and ear out for them.Thanks as always to our sponsors, Drumchapel Red Hand Comrades, I really appreciate your support, and our faithful made to parade patrons.Until next time look after yourselves and take it easy.Keep marching on.Glenn

Exploring and highlighting the positives is what the Made to Parade podcast is all about, while our primary focus has been marching bands, we have at times ventured of into other territory, and this week we are exploring the world of Highland Dancing here in Northern Ireland.It's fair to say that my knowledge in this area is very limited, so I am am absolutely delighted to have been able to connect with Georgina Kee from Sollus Highland Dancers. Georgina is a leading figure in Highland dancing here, having started at the age of 12, she had been instrumental in the growth of young people taking part and also has went on to perform at the highest levels, with a 5 year stint as part of the Highland Dancing team at the Edinburgh Tattoo!Georgina shares her story about how she got involved with dancing and surprising it starts with being a member of a pipe band! She explains how key relationships played a part in her development and the impact that continues to have today.I hope, like me, you will find this a fascinating conversation and a nice wee break from 'the bawns'We are getting close to the end of the season now with just a few episodes left to go. Remember this is the last season of the podcast, but its not the end of Made to Parade we have some big plans ahead of us.So for now, sit back, relax and enjoy the episode with Georgina.Keep Marching On!

This week's episode finds us in conversation with Pat Logan from the very well respected Saracen Flute Band. Scotland has a number of quality flute bands and the Sarry are definitely one of the stand outs in the Melody scene, another band that are as comfortable with the jigs as they are with the marches.The band are frequent visitors to Northern Ireland and have released a number of well received CD's over the years that are well worth checking out.i spoke with Pat about his own band journey as well as looking a little into the history of the Saracen, we ended up talking about a lot of other things as well, an absolute pleasure and a privilege to chat with him.Big thank you again to Stephen MacPherson from Drumchapel Protestant Boys for putting me in touch with Pat and also for the sponsorship of the remaining episodes of this our final season. A big thank you also goes to Patreon Patrons, who month after month have supported the work of the podcast, your contributions have been invaluable to the success of the podcast.Next episode we will have something a little different for you all to listen to, and then we will finish off with some great conversations with 2 more scottish bands and a local band as well.All in all, season 6 has been great so far, thank you to everyone who listens in faithfully every week, I really do appreciate all your support, and I can't wait to share with you the new set up from September.Until the next episode, look after yourselves and take it easy.Keep Marching On

Netherton Road FB are a band that I first came across when I went to Scotland for the first time with Pride of the Raven and I also bought the original tape that they released way back in the mid 80's.They are one of a quartet of bands that sport a very traditional style in regard to playing and also their style and appearance - they are no strangers to Belfast and walk here most 12th's with an East Belfast lodge.I had been trying to arrange a conversation with Phil for the podcast for quite some time, and things just got in the way, so I didn't want to miss the opportunity again, my only regret is that the laptop power drained quite quickly while we were recording so the episode is probably not as long as I would have expected it.We are going to try and organise a follow up conversation for this season as there is a lot more to talk about with Phil.Thanks to our new sponsors on the remaining episodes of the podcast, Drumchapel Red Hand Comrades Association, this sponsorship was organised by Stephen Macpherson, friend of the podcast and member of Drumchapel Protestant Boys.The next episode will feature Saracen Flute Band, so make sure you check that out when its released.Thank you to everyone who listens in week after week, I really appreciate your support.Til next time, look after yourselves and take it easy.

Thank you for joining us on another episode of the Made to Parade podcast, this week we talk to a Father and son duo from Hillhaven Flute Band, Davy and David Uprichard.One of the common themes that band members share about their band story is that the band is like a big family and another aspect is how many family members get involved with bands and keep the tradition alive.I had a great conversation with Davy and David, its amazing how quickly you can connect with people from the band scene even if you are meeting them for the first time. This really highlights the friendly community based nature of the scene in general.Please join us again on the next episode.You can check us out on our YouTube channel and get the podcast on all audio only platforms as well.Thanks to our Sponsors and Patrons, your support is greatly appreciated.www.madetoparade.com 

The latest episode of the Made to Parade podcast features flute and instrument maker extraordinaire, Peter Worrell. Known to most in Northern Ireland for his range of Bb Marching Flutes, however has a very extensive music and instrument making history. Peter shares how he ended up getting involved with the marching band scene here and how that evolved into making flutes. He talks about the process that goes into making a Bb flute and also about instrument care as well as some exciting developments coming in the future. This is a must watch for anyone with a passing interest in flute making and wanting to know more about the instrument they play. An absolutely fascinating conversation for me and thanks to Peter for taking the time out to speak with Made to Parade. Next week see's us speaking with Davy Uprichard from Hillhaven FB. Thanks as always to our Patreon patrons and our sponsors British Drum Co. Until the next episode, look after yourselves, take it easy and keep marching on. www.madetoparade.com

Ian McAllister has a long history of involvement with marching bands and here on the latest episode of the Made to Parade podcast, he shares some of that history with us.Ian tells us how he got his start with a band and the journey that ultimately led him to joining one of the most respected bands on the road today, Lisburn Young Defenders.Ian is also involved with Light of Foot, a group of band members who have come together to form a charitable organisation that seeks to support members of the marching band scene with regard to their mental health, Ian shares quite openly as to why this is so close to his heart and why he feels it is needed as part of the marching band scene today.Ian and I had this conversation a week or so before the Lisburn Young Defenders Melody Day concert, this took place on Saturday 26th March 2022 so this episode is nicely placed as a follow up from that event.Thank as always to all of our Sponsors, British Drum Co and of course our Patreon Patrons. Without you we couldn't keep the podcast going and all of the other work we are trying to do as well.Make sure you check us out on all audio podcast platforms and this episode will also go live on our YouTube channel.Keep Marching On.

Well we are back with our 60th episode and, the second episode of our brand new season 6. This week we feature Les McMaster, a member of the Parkinson Accordion Band, East Belfast. Les has been a member of the band for over 30 years and has benefitted immensely from his tenure with the band. From wanting to join the Sharpshooters to ending up in the Parkinson and making lifelong friends and connections, his story is a familiar one, however it did take a twist in the face of tragedy. Les' membership of the band has provided him with a way to cope with some of the hard things life has thrown his way and that is something that even money can't put a price on. I hope you enjoy the conversation with Les and I look forward to sharing the next episode in the season with you very soon. Until the next episode, look after yourselves and take it easy. Thanks as always to our Sponsors British Drum Co and our Patreon Patrons, we really appreciate all your support. 

The brand new episode finds us in conversation with Paul Elliott from Drumderg Loyalists Keady FB. We are also joined by his son Sam in the episode as well.Drumderg Loyalists Keady, also known as the DLK are one of the most respected bands on the road today with a reputation for not only great playing, but for having one of the best colour party's on the road, their distinctive look and sound make them a must watch at every parade.Paul shares how he got involved with bands and the traditions he learned and how he is passing them on through his family. He also talks about how the band has developed over their nearly 100 years of existence, and the role that he has played in that.Paul brought his son Sam along for the recording of the episode and Sam shares why he loves being a member of the band and what he gets out of it.Talking to both Paul and Sam it is evident just how much of a positive influence the band has had on their whole family life and it was an absolute pleasure to have them both on to kick of this new season of Made to Parade.Make sure you join us next week when we will be joined by Les McMaster from Parkinson Accordion Band. You won't want to miss it.A big thank you as always to our sponsors British Drum Co, as well as all our supporters on Patreon, we also have some more sponsors joining the Made to Parade family and I will keep you updated on that as the season progresses.Make sure you check out our YouTube channel for video versions of the podcast and check out our website to subscribe to the audio only version of the podcast www.madetoparade.com 

This is the final episode of Season 5 and we are in conversation with Conor McBride about his band journey. Conor is the lead tip with Crossgar Young Defenders and has been a member for 18 years now. Conor loves his band and still gets that sense of excitement before parades. Our thanks to Conor and all of our guests this season for taking the time to share their stories with Made to Parade. Thank you to all of our viewers and listeners for making this the most successful season yet. We look forward to having you around for season 6. If you would like to share your story then get in touch and we will get an episode lined up. Thanks as always to British Drum Co for sponsoring the podcast this season, it's been great to have your support. If you would like to support Made to Parade visit www.patreon.com/madetoparade and there are monthly packages you can sign up to. See you all again very soon for season 6.

The band scene in England is nowhere near the size it is in Northern Ireland or Scotland, but it is no less loyal and band members are as dedicated as any band member elsewhere in the scene. Mark has been part of bands for almost all of his life, the influence of his grandfather and family who brought the tradition with them when they moved from Scotland to England for work. You will hear a very familiar yet unique story and also how keeping a band on the road differs across the UK and how the bonds of friendship and brotherhood have kept the tradition alive and well no matter what the circumstances. This is the last full episode of the season but its not completely over yet, we do have one more bonus episode before we take a break to organise and record season 6. Thank you to everyone who has listened in to the podcast over the season, your support has been amazing.Thanks to British Drum Co for their continued support and our Patreon patrons who help out every month. www.patreon.com/madetoparade The podcast is also available on all audio only platforms as well. www.madetoparade.com

We are back for episode 9 of season five and this week's episode finds us in conversation with an iconic Belfast band, the Whiterock Flute Band. We talk with Thomas McAllister, a member with over 20 years service to the band about how he got involved, and what keeps him involved. We also talk about how the band have kept their traditional style and what that means to the band, and we also delve into some of the characters from the band. Thomas talks passionately about the impact the band has had on him and his family and what his hopes for the future are. Another great story giving some insight into what makes band members tick. A big thank you to Thomas for taking the time out to share his story and also to Roy for helping out with the camera's again. Thanks to our patrons who sponsor the podcast every month, we really appreciate your support. If you would like to help us then please visit www.patreon.com/madetoparade and check out a sponsorship package that works for you. Thanks to British Drum Co. for their continued support of the podcast. Catch you all on the next episode, look after yourselves and take it easy.

This week the podcast focusses on the "envisioning the future conference" that Made to Parade had the privilege of being a panel member at, sharing about getting our stories out there. The core aim of the conference was to reflect on positive and progressive community development modules from across the province, with the hope of developing solutions and help establish a process of strategic action for the Pro-Union Community. Bands and our rich culture featured heavily in discussions and we need to be a position to share the positives of the Union and have plans to ensure its continued existence. I am joined by conference organisers, James Kee, Derek Moore and Brian Docherty to reflect on the reason for the conference and to get their thoughts on how it went and what the plans for the future are as a result of it. Thanks as always to our patrons for their support, please visit patron.com/madetoparade if you would like to support us financially. Thanks to British Drum Co for their continued support. Thanks to all the new subscribers and regular listeners we appreciate each and every one of you. www.madetoparade.com  

This episode finds us in conversation with the Rev William Orr and David Moorehead from Flute Band Church. William is a minister who was a member of a flute band and uses the idea of Flute Band Church to engage with the marching band community. Both William and David have a long history and connection with bands and they talk about how they got involved initially. William then shares with us about his call to ministry and where the idea of Flute Band Church came from and what he hopes it will achieve. This was a great conversation and in the lovely setting of St Marks Church in Portadown. Thanks to Roy McPeak from Pictures on Parade for his help yet again with the filming of this episode. Thanks as always to our Patrons and to our sponsors British Drum Co, See you all on the next episode.

Rathcoole Protestant Boys are one of the best small blood and thunder bands on the road today, with a stunning repertoire of tunes and a playing style all of their own, and on the road you will know its them coming towards you before you even see them.We speak to one of their original members who has been there from the band was formed in 2009 and has been instrumental in the ongoing development of the band,The band have released what I consider to be one of the best blood and thunder CD's, called In Flanders Fields. Inspired by a trip to the battlefields of WW1 the band poured their heart and soul into creating a collection of tunes that are a fitting tribute to the men and women who gave their lives during that war.Join us as we go on a journey with Colin through his band history and the highs and lows of being in a brand new band and keeping the vision alive for 12 years.Thanks as always to our Patrons and British Drum Co our sponsors, thank you for believing in the work of Made to Parade.To all our listeners and watchers thank you for your support.This episode is available on all audio only podcast platforms and our YouTube channel as well as our website.www.madetoparade.com

This bonus episode focusses on what is happening to musicians in Afghanistan since the Taliban returned to power there. Musicians are being hunted and killed just purely for the fact that they are musicians. To me this is a complete tragedy and as a musician myself, I have no idea how I would respond in this situation. We are joined by Katherine Schofield from Kings College London to find out more about what is happening to musicians in Afghanistan and what we can do to help. Thanks to Darren Ferguson from beyond skin for putting me in touch with Katherine and for raising awareness of this issue - you can find out ways you can help from beyond Skin's web page https://www.beyondskin.net/campaign-to-protect-afghan-musicians Next week we will feature Rathcoole Protestant Boys on the podcast, an episode I have really been looking forward to make sure you check us out on madetoparade.com and all the usual audio podcast platforms.