ArtsPerforming Arts

Made to Parade

Glenn Millar

The Made to Parade podcast is an accompaniment to the book of the same name. Just like the book, the podcast promotes positive stories about the marching band scene in Northern Ireland and the rest of Great Britain. It provides a positive narrative and an inside look at what being a member of a marching band is all about and what it means personally to members.

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#112
July 19 · 42 min
No script, No Plan, Just conversation | Bandter: Episode 112
Made to Parade Podcast | Episode 112 – Bandter #1Ever wondered what happens when you simply hit record and let the conversation go wherever it wants?Welcome to Made to Parade: Bandter – our new off-the-cuff conversation series where there's no script, no agenda, just honest discussion about bands, music, culture and whatever else comes to mind.In Episode 112, Glenn Millar and co-host Sarah Carlisle begin by talking about musicality, talent and learning within the band scene, before the conversation takes some unexpected turns into the science of sound, memory, why music affects us the way it does, and much more.It's relaxed, spontaneous and, hopefully, the sort of conversation you'll feel part of rather than just listening to.If you enjoy a bit of Bandter and think you'd have something interesting to bring to one of these conversations, we'd love to hear from you.Get in touch with Made to Parade if you'd like to join us for a future episode.If you enjoy the podcast, don't forget to Like, Subscribe, and leave a comment letting us know what topics you'd like us to tackle next.#MadeToParade #Bandter #Podcast #MarchingBands #BandCulture #Music #CorpsOfDrums #FluteBands #BrassBands #Drumming #NorthernIreland #MusicConversation
#111
July 11 · 1 hr 47 min
Corps of Drums - Tradition in Step with the Future - Will Casson-Smith
In this episode of the Made to Parade Podcast, Glenn Millar sits down with Will Casson-Smith, retired British Army Warrant Officer Class 1, former Band Master in the Corps of Army Music, professional musician and military music historian. Together they explore the rich tradition of the Corps of Drums, discussing its history, unique musical style, ceremonial role and the skill required to perform within one of Britain's most distinctive military musical traditions. Will also reflects on his passion for preserving military music, including the story behind his album My Father's Drum, released in support of Armed Forces charities. As a special feature, this episode includes one of Will's Corps of Drums arrangements, allowing listeners to experience the music being discussed throughout the conversation. Whether you're involved in marching bands, military music, pipe bands, or simply have an interest in musical heritage, this is an in-depth discussion you won't want to miss. Topics include: Arranging and performing ceremonial music My Father's Drum Corps of Drums performance If you enjoy this episode, please Like, Subscribe, and let us know your thoughts in the comments.
June 10 · 21 min
So It's Community Now? | Culture, Identity & The Myth of Inevitability: Episode 110
For years, we've been told that certain cultural traditions are relics of the past, destined to fade away as Northern Ireland moves towards a different future.But what happens when even critics begin to acknowledge the strength of the community, identity and belonging that exist within those traditions?In this episode of Made to Parade, Glenn explores the growing recognition of unionist and loyalist cultural identity and asks whether the narrative of an "inevitable future" stands up to scrutiny when confronted with the reality of living, breathing communities.Drawing on culture, politics, history and previous conversations with sociologist Colin Coulter, this episode examines:🔹 The difference between political aspiration and political reality🔹 Why community and belonging matter more than political slogans🔹 The resilience of cultural identity in Northern Ireland🔹 What marching bands tell us about continuity, heritage and community life🔹 Whether a United Ireland is truly a priority beyond political circles🔹 The challenge of reconciling competing identities in a shared society🔹 Why recognising one culture's legitimacy means recognising another'sThis is not an episode about hostility or division. It is an invitation to think critically about the stories we tell ourselves, the assumptions we make about the future, and the role that culture continues to play in shaping life across Northern Ireland.Because if culture is as meaningful and resilient as many now acknowledge, perhaps the future is not as inevitable as some would like us to believe.Join the conversationDo you think cultural identity is properly understood in Northern Ireland?Can a future be described as "inevitable" when large sections of society remain deeply connected to their traditions and heritage?Let us know your thoughts in the comments below. Subscribe to Made to Parade for conversations on marching bands, music, culture, identity, history and the issues that matter to our community.#MadeToParade #NorthernIreland #Culture #Identity #Community #MarchingBands #UnionistCulture #LoyalistCulture #Politics #ColinCoulter #Heritage #Belonging #Podcast #CommunityMatters #NorthernIrelandCulture
#109
April 5 · 1 hr 17 min
Loyalist Bands Causing a Cultural Shift in Belfast: Episode 109
So it’s culture now? For years, loyalist marching bands have faced the same criticism — “what culture?” or “that’s not culture.”But this year in Belfast, something shifted. A Protestant marching band took part in the city’s St Patrick’s Day parade, a moment that, for some, signalled progress, and for others, raised serious questions. Now, that conversation has moved even further, with the Belfast Bands Forum involvement in one of the biggest festivals of traditional music coming to Belfast for the next 2 years. So where does that leave us?In this episode, we’re joined by: Representatives from the band who took part in the St Patrick’s Day parade, Members of the Belfast Bands Forum, and a sitting City Councillor. This isn’t a conversation about theory, it’s about real decisions, real leadership, and a changing cultural landscape in Belfast. We explore:Why bands were included in St Patrick’s DayThe thinking behind potential involvement in the Fleadh .Why this is seen as progress by some and controversial by othersAnd the bigger question: who gets to define culture in Northern Ireland? Because if this isn’t culture… what is?Join the conversationThis is a topic that challenges long-held views, so we want to hear from you. Do you see this as progress? Should bands be part of events like the Fleadh? What does shared culture in Belfast look like to you? Drop your thoughts in the comments. Subscribe for more conversations on band culture, identity, and community Follow Made to Parade for podcasts, documentaries, and discussion from within the scene.
#108
March 29 · 15 min
Scripture, Sash & Memory - Episode 108: Memory, Why We Refuse to Forget
Scripture, Sash & Memory - Episode 1: Memory, Why We Refuse to ForgetBecause too often, Protestant marching culture is talked about without being properly understood.It’s reduced to headlines, assumptions or controversy, without exploring the deeper roots that shaped it.Scripture, Sash & Memory is about going beyond that.This series looks at how faith, history and community experience, particularly through the Reformation and the Glorious Revolution, have shaped a culture that still exists today.Not to defend it.Not to preach.But to understand it.Episode 1: Memory, Why We Refuse to ForgetWhy do we remember?Why does remembrance still matter in a world that keeps telling us to move on?In this opening episode, we explore the idea that memory is not about hatred, it’s about identity.This episode sets the foundation for the entire series, looking at how Protestant marching culture in Northern Ireland carries inherited patterns shaped by belief, history and community, even for those who no longer actively practise that belief.We’re not making the case that band culture is biblical.We’re asking a deeper question:What happens to a people when they forget where they’ve come from?Drawing on cultural experience and biblical ideas around remembrance, this episode explores: • Why forgetting is never neutral• The difference between memory and grievance• How ritual carries identity across generations• Why parades can be understood as commemoration rather than triumphalism• The connection between memory, belonging and place“We don’t march because we hate.We march because we remember.”About the SeriesScripture, Sash & Memory explores the connections between:• The Protestant Reformation• The Glorious Revolution• The development of Loyal Orders• The rise of marching bands in Northern IrelandAnd how these influences continue to shape culture, identity and tradition today.Listen / Follow Available on all podcast platformsSubscribe for more episodesTurn on notifications so you don’t miss the next part of the series
#107
February 26 · 25 min
My Personal Top 5 Melody Band Recordings - Episode 107
This episode has been in my head for a while. There are certain melody band recordings that, when they came out, you just knew they mattered. You could hear the work put into it. That’s what this episode is about.I’m picking my personal Top 5 melody recordings, and for each one I’ll mention a standout track, just as a reference point. But this isn’t about ranking individual tunes.It’s about the recording as a whole. The overall quality. The consistency across the album. The production. You might agree. You might think I’ve missed obvious ones. That’s fine. This isn’t a definitive list, it’s simply the five that, for me, set a standard. So once you’ve listened, I’d love to know, what are yours? Like, share and subscribe if you’re enjoying Made to Parade. #MadeToParade #MelodyRecordings #BandCulture #FluteBands #MarchingBands
#106
February 18 · 55 min
Episode 106: Holding History in Our Hands | Pride of the Raven Memories
Episode 106 | Made to Parade PodcastIn the new episode of Made to Parade, I sit down with long-time bandsman Dennis McNab for a look at early memorabilia of Pride of the Raven Flute Band.Spread out across the table is memory itself.Old Black Watch hat badges.Original dickie bows.A drum major’s sash worn by past leaders.Music pouches, coat badges, and repaired instruments with stories in every scratch.Rare black-and-white photographs, dinner dance snapshots, and faces that built the band long before social media ever existed.Each item opens the door to a story, about people, pride, graft, friendship, and the quiet moments that shape a band’s identity.This episode isn’t only about looking back. It’s a reminder.If we don’t record our history, we lose it, because today’s ordinary moments are tomorrow’s heritage.If you care about where your band came from… this one’s for you.Subscribe for more stories from the band sceneStart saving your history, you’ll thank yourself laterNew episodes fortnightly#MadeToParade #BandHistory #FluteBands #NorthernIrelandBands #Heritage #MarchingBands
#105
January 26 · 1 hr 21 min
Gordon Ramsey - How Bands Look After Their Own
How Bands Take Care of Their Own | Gordon Ramsey on Loyalist Bands, Community & CareMade to Parade – First Episode of 2026What if marching bands were more than music and parades?What if they were also mental-health support networks, food banks, fundraising engines, and the glue holding working-class communities together?We’re kicking off 2026 with one of the most important conversations we’ve ever recorded.In this episode, Glenn and Sarah sit down with researcher and author Gordon Ramsey, whose work explores loyalist marching bands through a completely different lens — not stereotypes or headlines, but solidarity, mutual aid, and social care.Together we unpack:How bands step in where the state steps back“Taking care of our own” and what that really looks likeMental health, masculinity and support inside band cultureCharity work, fundraising and community activismWhy bands function as communities of practice and belongingAnd how this connects directly with Glenn’s upcoming book How Bands Build PeopleThis isn’t about defending bands. It’s about understanding them properly.If you’ve ever played, marched, rehearsed, fundraised, or found yourself through a band — this episode will hit home.Because bands don’t just do parades. They build people.
Nov 16, 2025 · 1 hr 31 min
From the Beginning: "The Birth of Pride of the Raven” with Dennis McNab
In this special episode, Glenn sits down with Dennis - one of the near-founding members of the Pride of the Raven Flute Band - to look back at the band’s earliest days. From the first practices and handmade uniforms to unforgettable parades, rivalries, and the deep sense of community that shaped their journey, Dennis shares stories and memories that bring the band’s origins to life. Recorded alongside rare memorabilia and personal reflections, this conversation captures the spirit, pride, and people who built one of Belfast’s most recognisable flute bands.
#104
Nov 9, 2025 · 35 min
Episode 104 Star of Down Flute Band 50th Anniversary Interview | Kenny Cromie |
Episode 104 | Made to Parade Podcast This week marks a special moment for Made to Parade as we welcome our newest host, Sarah Carlisle, who takes the reins for the very first time. Sarah sits down with Kenny Cromie from Star of Down Flute Band, Maghera, as the band proudly celebrates their 50th Anniversary. Kenny takes us through the band’s journey: the early days, the highs and lows, the changes over the decades, and the sense of pride that has kept Star of Down at the heart of their community for half a century. This is a story of tradition, dedication, identity, and the power of music to bring people together across generations .Whether you’re part of the band scene yourself or just love hearing the stories behind it, this is one you’ll enjoy. 🎧 Listen now and help us welcome Sarah to the Made to Parade family!
#103
Nov 1, 2025 · 45 min
Episode 103 - Marc Emery: Castlederg Young Loyalists Old Boys FB
Episode 103: Marc Emery – Castlederg Young Loyalists Old Boys Flute Band The latest episode of Made to Parade is out now! In this week’s conversation, we’re joined by Marc Emery from Castlederg Young Loyalists Old Boys Flute Band — a group steeped in tradition and community pride. Marc talks about the band’s journey, the importance of local heritage in Castlederg, and what it means to be part of a band that continues to uphold strong musical and cultural values. From the early days to the present, this is a story about loyalty, legacy, and the enduring power of banding life in Northern Ireland. Tune in, share your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications to stay up to date with future episodes. Available now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. #MadeToParade #FluteBand #Castlederg #MarchingBands #BandCulture #NorthernIreland #MarcEmery #LoyalistBands #CommunityMusic #BandHeritage
#102
Oct 25, 2025 · 26 min
Episode 102 - Introducing new co-host: Sarah Carlisle
In this episode of Made to Parade, we’re excited to introduce our newest co-host, Sarah Carlisle! 🎙️Sarah brings with her a lifelong connection to the Northern Ireland band scene, with deep family roots in the Brunswick Accordion Band. Her passion for music, community, and the people who make the band world what it is shines through as she joins the team to help share stories, celebrate achievements, and promote the positive side of band life across the country. Join us as Glenn and Sarah talk about: 🥁 Sarah’s background and connection to the bands scene🎶 What inspired her to get involved with Made to Parade 💬 The importance of representation, positivity, and storytelling within band culture 🚩 The future of the podcast and what’s coming nextMade to Parade continues to shine a light on the pride, purpose, and passion behind Northern Ireland’s bands — and with Sarah on board, there’s even more to look forward to! 💬 Join the conversation:Comment below with your messages of support for Sarah or share what band life means to you! #MadeToParade #MarchingBands #NorthernIreland #AccordionBand #Podcast #BandCulture #SarahCarlisle #CommunityMusic
#101
Sep 17, 2025 · 1 hr 8 min
Episode 101: Kirk Patton - NI Band Services
Episode 101 – Made to Parade PodcastIn this episode we sit down with Kirk Patton of NI Band Services to hear his incredible story. From his early days in the band scene, to launching a business dedicated to bands, Kirk has become a recognised names in the and sceneKirk talks openly about his band history, the journey that led him to set up NI Band Services, and how he’s now producing custom flutes for the marching band world. He’s also been a proud supporter of Made to Parade, sponsoring episodes and creating a truly special Blackwood 5-key flute engraved with the Made to Parade logo.🎶 This unique flute will be auctioned off to raise funds for the podcast – details coming soon!📌 Listen as we explore:Kirk’s background in the band sceneThe inspiration behind NI Band ServicesHow he started designing and making flutesHis sponsorship and support for Made to ParadeThe story behind the Blackwood 5-key Made to Parade flute👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more stories from across the band world.🎧 Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts & all major podcast platforms.#MadeToParade #NIBandServices #MarchingBands #FluteDesign #BandCulture #Podcast #Episode101
#100
Sep 3, 2025 · 1 hr 8 min
Episode 100: Jake McCleery - North Down Defenders
Made to Parade Podcast | Episode 100 | Featuring Jake McCleary – North Down Defenders We’ve reached a huge milestone — the 100th official episode of Made to Parade! Alongside bonus episodes and special features over the years, this is a moment to celebrate the stories, music, and people that make our band scene so unique. And what better way to mark it than with the incredible story of Jake McCleary, a young drummer from North Down Defenders Flute Band who proves that passion and resilience can overcome any barrier. Born with one arm, Jake has developed his own powerful one-handed drumming style. In this special episode he shares: How he first got into the band scene and what drew him to the drum. The challenges he’s faced and the creative ways he’s adapted. The support and pride he’s found in North Down Defenders. What band life means to him and his hopes for the future. To top it off, Jake gives us a live demonstration of his drumming skills — showing exactly why he’s a respected and valued part of the marching band community. This 100th episode is a celebration of resilience, belonging, and the power of music to bring people together. Thank you to everyone who’s listened, shared, and supported Made to Parade on the journey to 100 episodes and beyond. Make sure to subscribe for more stories from across the marching band world. #MadeToParade #Episode100 #NorthDownDefenders #FluteBand #Drumming #BandLife
Jul 23, 2025 · 38 min
Colin Coulter: The Economic Myths of a United Ireland
Is Northern Ireland really a financial burden on the UK? Should we believe the headlines claiming the Irish Republic is a thriving economic alternative? In this Made to Parade bonus episode, Prof Colin Coulter from Maynooth University challenges those assumptions.We explore the growing media narrative around a united Ireland referendum and break down the economic myths often used to promote Irish unification. Professor Coulter reveals how the Republic of Ireland may look wealthy on paper — but behind the GDP headlines lies a very different reality.🇬🇧 A powerful pro-union argument backed by evidence.📉 Why Ireland is a wealthy economy but not a wealthy country.📊 The truth about financial data, tax policy, and corporate loopholes.🗳️ A must-listen for anyone questioning the financial case for a united Ireland.
Jul 9, 2025 · 52 min
Made to Parade Unfiltered #1: Orange Arches - Iconic tradition or Road Safety Risk
In this first episode of Made to Parade "Unfiltered", we’re joined by Rev. Mervyn Gibson, Grand Secretary of the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland, to delve into one of the most visually recognisable – and often misunderstood – symbols of Ulster Protestant culture: the Orange arch.Erected in towns and villages across Northern Ireland in the lead-up to the Twelfth of July, these decorative arches are deeply rooted in local tradition, community pride, and historical commemoration. But in recent years, some critics have labelled them as public safety risks or divisive displays.Are these claims based on genuine concern – or are they being used to suppress cultural expression in contested spaces?We explore:The origins and evolution of the Orange arch traditionThe legal and safety processes involved in erecting themCommon myths and criticismsThe broader questions of identity, heritage, and visibility in a post-conflict societyRev. Gibson offers both historical insight and a firm defence of the role these structures play in community life today. Whether you’re from within the band scene or looking to understand more about Northern Ireland’s cultural landscape, this episode challenges assumptions and sparks important conversation.#MadeToParade #OrangeArches #MervynGibson #CulturalHeritage #NorthernIreland #TwelfthOfJuly #AskMervyn #ParadingTradition #SharedSpace #CommunityIdentity
Jul 2, 2025 · 12 min
Tunes that changed the Scene #4
Tunes That Changed the Scene | Black Skull Flute Band – St. Louis BluesIn this episode of Tunes That Changed the Scene, we take a look at one of the most iconic band recordings to come out of Glasgow—St. Louis Blues by Black Skull Flute Band.Originally featured on their second tape, this track marked a bold shift in the sound and style of the band scene, blending big band swing influences with the unmistakable energy of the melody flute tradition. We explore what made this tune such a standout moment, how it influenced other bands, and why it still holds legendary status today.Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes exploring the tunes that helped shape the marching band world.#MadeToParade #TunesThatChangedTheScene #FluteBand #BlackSkullFB #StLouisBlues #BandCulture #MarchingBandHistory
#99
Jun 19, 2025 · 46 min
Episode 99 Marching Minds Mental Health Arts Festival Special - PART 2
Part 2 of the Made to Parade – Mental Health Live Podcast Special. This Episode is kindly sponsored by N.I. Band Services This time we’re joined by: Derek Moore -@William King Memorial Flute Band Londonderry Graeme Stevenson - Portadown Defenders Flute Band Sarah Bunting - representing the Belfast Bands Forum Together we’ll dive into the real-life highs, lows, and hard-won lessons of protecting our mental health within the band scene. Whether you march, support, or just love good conversation, you won’t want to miss it. Let’s keep looking after each other. #MadeToParade #MentalHealthMatters#BandFamily #FluteBand #NorthernIreland#LivePodcast
#98
Jun 12, 2025 · 48 min
Episode 98 Marching Minds Mental Health Arts Festival Special - PART 1
Marching Minds – Part 1 | Made to Parade Live Podcast | Mental Health Arts Festival NIIt’s been a wee while since we posted, but we’re back with something really special.This is Part 1 of “Marching Minds”, a live Made to Parade podcast recorded as part of the Mental Health Arts Festival Northern Ireland and released to coincide with Men’s Mental Health Week.This episode brings together voices from across the marching band scene to talk openly and honestly about mental health, music, masculinity, and community. Through personal stories, shared experiences, and a bit of craic, we explore how band culture can be a powerful force for connection and wellbeing.🧠 Featuring panel guests from Light of Foot, Londonderry Bands Forum, Belfast Bands Forum, and more.This is more than a podcast episode – it’s a conversation we all need to be having.📍 Part 2 coming soon – subscribe and turn on notifications so you don’t miss it.👇 Drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know what stood out to you.#MadeToParade #MarchingMinds #MensMentalHealthWeek #MentalHealthAwareness #MentalHealthArtsFestival #MarchingBandsNI #BandCulture #Podcast
#97
Apr 17, 2025 · 1 hr 25 min
Episode 97 - Gormy and Junior: Regimental Band, East Belfast
Made to Parade | Regimental Flute Band UVF East Belfast – 56 Years On The Road 🎶 In this special episode, we’re joined by Gormy and Junior from the Regimental Flute Band of the Ulster Volunteer Force, East Belfast, as the band marks an incredible 56 years on the road. We take a deeper look into what it means to be part of a band with such a strong legacy, how they’ve stayed relevant across generations, and what really sets the Regimental apart in today’s band scene. From musical choices and public perception to unforgettable moments and life on parade, Gormy and Junior bring honesty, insight, and a few surprises along the way. If you're into band culture, tradition, and the stories behind the uniforms, you won’t want to miss this conversation. 👇 Drop a comment to let us know your favourite moment or memory of the Regimental! 🔔 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more band content and behind-the-scenes stories. #MadeToParade #RegimentalFluteBand #UVFEastBelfast #MarchingBands #BandCulture #56YearsOnTheRoad

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