The Desert Thistle Youth Pipe Band

Following the successful model of Portland’s Sir James MacDonald Pipe Band (formerly the Oregon Pipers’ Society Junior Band), and the world-champion Simon Fraser University Pipe Band’s youth bands in Vancouver, B.C., the Desert Thistle Pipe Band is organizing a youth bagpipe and drum band for boys and girls ages 8 to 18.

Pipers learn to play on an instrument called practice chanter. When students have mastered this small (quiet!), recorder-like instrument they are ready to move on to the pipes. Playing pipes is a complicated activity, and students will take some time to be competent to perform with the band. This can take from between six and 12 months. Pipers develop through instruction as well as individual practice. Regular class and individual instruction is provided by the DTPB organization. The length to time required to develop competence is largely dependent upon individual motivation and practice time. Purchasing practice chanters and pipes is the responsibility of the student. Since bagpipes vary widely in quality and tone (even among similar sets from the same manufacturer), it’s best to have help selecting instruments when the time comes. Teachers have good insights on suppliers, and can sometimes find used sets in the area.

For drummers, teaching is also provided by the DTPB. Like playing bagpipes or any other instrument, the length of time to develop competence depends on the individual, although prior musical experience accelerates the process. Drummers are required to supply their own drumsticks and practice pads. Drums are provided by the band due to the limited life of the equipment and the need for the drums to be a matched set.

The band organization will rely upon the support of parents for fund-raising; organizing practices, performances, and competitions; transportation; and management of equipment and uniforms. Band members and parents will also decide what activities the band can commit to. The band manager will coordinate activities of parent volunteers. Musical direction will come from the DTPB organization.

Equipment required for the band includes drums for performing members of the drum corps, pipe chanters (a matched set is required), drone and chanter reeds for the pipes, and drumheads. This equipment is normally supplied by the band organization, but funds will need to be raised to procure it for the youth band. The DTPB may be able to contribute some supplies and a few uniform pieces.

Uniforms will not be needed until the band is ready for its first performance, so some time is available for fundraising to purchase band-supplied uniforms. When adequate funds have been raised, the band will supply kilts, sporrans and will contribute half to the purchase of kilt hose (socks). Each member will be required to supply his/her own hat, uniform shirt, black dress shoes, and kilt hose (1/2). Waistbelts, sgian dubhs, kilt pins, cap badges, and other items traditionally worn with the kilt will be optional items supply by members, if so desired.