What's involved in being part of a pipe band?

What unites us all is a love of highland music, and we gladly give up part of our own time to pursue this interest.

The Band practises on Monday nights at Scots Church in Bathurst Street. Other practices are scheduled as required. Drill practice occurs during the warmer months at the Domain. The Band takes part in street marches, competitions (organised by the Tasmanian Pipe Band Association), fetes and just about any other occasion where a pipe band can add its special magic.

Training is provided in drumming (side, tenor or bass drums) as well as the bagpipes. There is no charge for the tuition; use of instruments or for the uniform. Playing members pay an annual membership fee of $35 pa.

Learners do not require any previous musical training, although any previous experience makes for faster advancement. Learner pipers are issued with a "chanter" ( a recorder-like instrument) which allows the student to learn the notes and embellishments. Once these are mastered, tunes are learnt. When the student can play a number of tunes, they are issued with a full bagpipe set. This is usually the hard part, since the student needs to learn the blowing techniques as well play the tunes. Progression to the playing band can take from around 6 to 18 months (yes, it all depends!).

Learner drummers use a "practice pad" to learn the drumming techniques. Tenor drumming (the "twirly type" of drumming) is the easiest to learn, and looks very impressive. Side drumming is more elaborate and takes longer. Progression to the playing band can take from 6 to 18 months. Bass drumming is very important, since the bass drummer is the "conductor" of the band. If they get the tempo wrong, or get the "ending" wrong, the results can be disastrous (fortunately this rarely occurs!)

The band also has a social side. The band organises functions and has been known to have a quiet drink at the end of a long day at competitions.

The main prerequities for joining the band are:

• A genuine love of highland music
• A reasonable musical ability, but not necessarily any previous experience. If you can read music, it is a definite advantage!
• A willingness to spend time mastering the instrument! In the early months, you should be prepared to spend around 20 minutes per day, at least
• A commitment to attend practices and parades

If you are interested, send us a note on the response page. Use the link on the Home page to get to the response page.