Instruction & Requirements

Able assistance in learning the bagpipe or the snare drum can be had by contacting any band member as to details of instruction.

The first requisite for learning the bagpipe is to purchase a “practice chanter”. This can be an investment ranging from $20 to $45. It is strongly advised that you contact an experienced player for advice before purchasing this instrument.

One must then take a series of lessons in order to begin establishing the proper techniques needed before proceeding to the bagpipe.

Although musical experience is of benefit, it is not necessary at the start for you will learn musical theory as you progress.

After you have mastered the fundamentals and the required tunes, you will then proceed to the bagpipe. Further training in solo and group work will commence.

It is necessary that each member owns their own practice chanter and bagpipe.

For those taking up the drum, drum equipment is furnished by the band and instruction on this instrument will be under the direction of the Drum Sergeant.

Uniform equipment will be furnished by the band.

TUNE LIST-STAGE ONE

It is an observed fact that starting to play with the band too soon can be detrimental to one’s mastery of technique. The time to start this segment of ones training is up to the discretion of the Pipe Major.

There is no way to determine how long it will take one to achieve stage one. This is entirely up to the student. It will happen as quickly as one makes it happen.

There are five tunes required on chanter and pipes before performing with the band:

1. Blue Bells of Scotland 2. The Auld Hoose 3. The Rowan Tree 4. Minstrel Boy 5. Wearin’ O’ the Green

All musical exercises and music will be band arrangements and will be furnished to the student from the band files.