How to Join a Pipe and Drum Band

Do you love the sounds of bagpipes?  If your like me, you just can't get enough of the rich droning sound of a set of bagpipes, accompanied by the beating of Scottish drumming.  

• If you just like to listen to a Pipe and Drum band; many states have a tattoo at some point during the year; an example is the Estes Park Scottish/Irish festival in Colorado.  These events are a great way to immerse yourself in these wonderful sounds.  There are the tattoos, massed bands, parades, as well as all types of competitions.  These events are a great way to find out what groups are local to your area.
• A special note to those who are Freemasons and Shriners!  I am a member of a shrine band, and am a friend of members of a different band in my home state.  What a wonderful way to combine fun and helping others!
• Many bands offer lessons to their new members at a reduced price or at no cost.  The instruments are not cheap and you really need to have a strong desire to play and learn.  However you don't have to race out and purchase a new instrument right away.  Pipers use a practice chanter during practice and when learning new tunes; this is a much quieter instrument and doesn't annoy family and neighbors as much!  Drummers can purchase an appropriate pair of sticks and a drumpad to practice on.
• It is important to note that you need an instructor if you want to learn to play.  This is not an easy task and can take a while to learn either type of instrument. 
• So- if you want to join a band here are a few suggestions:  Look on the internet, or attend a festival find the band that interests you.  If you are a experienced player jump right in, if a new student find an instructor and then purchase your practice equipment.  Band members are a wealth of experience and knowledge when looking for your instruments.
• I hope that you find this article interesting as well as helpful!  We can never have enough pipers and drummers as they produce such wonderful music.  I wish you the best and hope to see you at an event in the future!