Kenny & Amanda Porter + David Montgomery (Omagh Protestant Boys)

<p>Omagh Protestant Boys FB was formed in 1976 amidst the emergence of a lot of new bands during the 70's and have went on to become one of the best melody flute bands in Northern Ireland.</p><p>I caught up with Kenny and Amanda Porter alongside David Montgomery to hear more about the history of the band and some of the exciting ways in which they have helped communities connect with their history and culture.</p><p>Creating a show called "In the Footsteps of Heroes" the band sought to connect audiences with the powerful stories of bravery and sacrifice during the World Wars, using all of the bands talents and innovative approaches they brought stories to life in a very real and emotional way.</p><p>The band also performed in Savannah, USA at a St Patricks Parade. Not your typical parade for a flute band from Northern Ireland, but one that has broken down barriers and stereotypes of bands and seen OPB act as very able ambassadors for the thousands of bandsmen and women here. The episode gives you an inside story on how the trip came about and what it was like for the band.</p><p>I thoroughly enjoyed the hospitality and conversation with Amanda, Kenny and David and look forward to connecting with them again after we leave lockdown.</p><p>Make sure you visit our website madetoparade.com to connect with all of the episodes we have released so far there really is something for everyone.</p><p>Made to Parade the book is available from Amazon for £9.99 paperback and £5.99 for the Kindle version.</p><p>You can check out the documentary of OPB's visit to Savannah here:</p>