Cork Barrack Street Band, affectionately known as the ‘Barracka’ was founded as a temperance band by Fr. Theobald Matthew in 1837. 

During the early years, the band, which was the main attraction of his temperance society, was situated at No 1 Barrack Street. 

When weather permitted, the band would march the ill-paved, dim, gas-lit thoroughfares of Cork by night, playing inspirational airs, accompanied by a large following of temperance supporters parading in torch light procession in order to give hope to those who had lost their way. 

As the years rolled by, the band and its society became one of the strongest temperance and politically motivated institutes in Ireland. They achieved musical excellence due to the training and guidance of the military bandsmen from the nearby military barracks, Elizabeth Fort and they went on to win many brass and reed band contests.

The Barracka is an integral part of the cultural fabric of Cork and has continued to make a significant contribution to the musical life of the city. 

The band performs regularly at civic, cultural, sacred and sporting events in Cork City and County as well as at concerts, public recitals and community events at home and abroad. The band has travelled to Wales, Manchester and also performed at the Menin Gate (Ypres) and the Island of Ireland Peace Park (Mesene) in Belgium.

Today the band regularly perform at civic, cultural, sacred and sporting events in Cork City and County, and are always welcoming new members.

Keep an eye on the events page and social media to learn about upcoming events.