New Pipe Band Forming!
The mission of the new Greater Midwest Pipe Band (Grade V or IV TBD) is to continue the rich cultural heritage and collaboration of Pipe Bands and piping/drumming musicians in the Midwest and Ontario area.
Players are invited from all areas, with consolidated rotation of rehearsals, skype reviews and local practices balancing out a modern approach to continuous improvement. With a focus on competition, the band invites existing organizations to partner and collaborate to create a strong regional band, while allowing for local events. The new band has the full support of the established Grade II band and access to the knowledge and talent pool. Rather than the usual weekly or twice-a-week practice schedule demands, the band will hold only one Saturday practice each month over the winter, and then move to a weekly routine as the contest season begins. Local small-group practices are encouraged to keep playing moving along during the winter.
It’s all intended to appeal to those who have family and work commitments, the primary reasons that pipers and drummers cite for not playing in a pipe band.
The Band is dedicated and committed to:
Vision for the Future
In our vision for the future of the Greater Midwest Pipe Band, we see ourselves as:
With players from all over the Midwest, Ontario and other states: Centralized monthly practices will be held at The Masonic Temple in Battle Creek, Mi, local practices are still TBD.
Our first meeting/practice will be held on Saturday October 10th – we look forward to having you join us!
Questions? - Please contact:
Steve Thomson ([email protected])
Chris Barr ([email protected])
The mission of the new Greater Midwest Pipe Band (Grade V or IV TBD) is to continue the rich cultural heritage and collaboration of Pipe Bands and piping/drumming musicians in the Midwest and Ontario area.
Players are invited from all areas, with consolidated rotation of rehearsals, skype reviews and local practices balancing out a modern approach to continuous improvement. With a focus on competition, the band invites existing organizations to partner and collaborate to create a strong regional band, while allowing for local events. The new band has the full support of the established Grade II band and access to the knowledge and talent pool. Rather than the usual weekly or twice-a-week practice schedule demands, the band will hold only one Saturday practice each month over the winter, and then move to a weekly routine as the contest season begins. Local small-group practices are encouraged to keep playing moving along during the winter.
It’s all intended to appeal to those who have family and work commitments, the primary reasons that pipers and drummers cite for not playing in a pipe band.
The Band is dedicated and committed to:
- Provide a competitive environment where playing is cultivated
- support festive and cultural events
- serve as ambassadors through pipe band performances
- preserve and celebrate the accomplishments of the GMWPB family
- ensure the Pipe Band's continued presence and respect
- provide piping and drumming lessons for aspiring players
- a family centric approach, where family members are encouraged to attend and support the band at all events and rehearsals
Vision for the Future
In our vision for the future of the Greater Midwest Pipe Band, we see ourselves as:
- a flourishing, high quality, adequately funded Pipe Band that meets the needs of the community and the aspirations of its members
- known and respected in the Pipe Band world
- attracting both trained and new players of all ages and providing them with life experiences unique to the Pipe Band culture
With players from all over the Midwest, Ontario and other states: Centralized monthly practices will be held at The Masonic Temple in Battle Creek, Mi, local practices are still TBD.
Our first meeting/practice will be held on Saturday October 10th – we look forward to having you join us!
Questions? - Please contact:
Steve Thomson ([email protected])
Chris Barr ([email protected])