The Gert and Friends

FIRST BAND PRACTICE FOR EASTSIDE ARTS FESTIVAL

The Gert and Friends is a new project in collaboration with members and friends of Gertrude Star Flute Band, East Belfast. Part of EastSide Partnership’s wider cultural exploration programme called ‘People Make the East’, this project aims to explore identity and culture through musical collaboration, creative expression and a heap of banter!

The 6 month project features a songwriting strand with members of the band in collaboration with musicians Matt McGinn and Chip Bailey, as well as a newly formed Women’s Choir, led by Una McCann, made up of friends, partners and family, aimed at exploring the role and identity of women within the bands community.

This project aims to enhance creative capability, explore band culture and nurture local creative talent. We want to platform the musicianship already present in bands, shine a light on their sense of community and encourage local ‘Easties’ to attend, especially if they would not usually take part in marches or unionist cultural events.

Keep an eye out for our public performance at The Mac Theatre at the end of March 2022!