Military Pipe Bands
Posted: Thursday, December 09, 2010
by Anna Murray
The Scotland Kilt Company
Pipe and drum sections are well established as an integral part of the military, giving morale to the troops. The lone bagpiper is the oldest element with a piper and drums playing together a more recent element dating back to the 16th century.
When Bannie Prince Charlie and the Jacobites were defeated at the battle of Culloden the playing of bagpipes was banned.
'a Highland regiment never marched without a piper...therefore his bagpipe, in the eye of the law, was an instrument of war'
So what music did military pipers play - there were three types of 'pibrochs' (tunes) - as well as tunes for marching to and well as laments for playing at funerals. Many of the pibrochs were inspired by famous battles in particular the Jacobite Rebellion. As such some tunes are linked to certain regiments.
In 1840, the popularity of military pipe bands was given a boost - Pipe bands were given a boost by Queen Victoria who falling in love with all things Scottish decreed that all of the Highland Regiments should have a pipe band. Pipe bands grew in reputation both at home and abroad a positive image of Scotland. During the First World War pipers were banned from playing in the trenches, however many disobeyed this order and were killed along side their comrades. Military pipers were also present in more recent conflict includig the Gulf war. Today pipers in the army are also required to take on a secondary role in the army, such as a medic.
Today military pipe bands, also referred to as 'pipe and drums' have expended and are common outside of the military and thousands of civilian pipe bands have sprung up all over the world
Pipe band proficiency is typically measured in grades from 1-4. With grade 1 the highest level and grade 4 the most basic or training level. Pipe bands commonly contain several different elements - snare drummers, a single tenor drummer and a single drummer.
Countires that have strong cultural links to Scotland such as America, Canada and Australia also have a 1000s of pipe bands which celebrate thier shared celtic heritage.
At the annual World Pipe Band Championships pipe bands from around the world come together to perform. The Edinburgh Tattoo is also a key fixture for pipe bands - Different bands come together creating a wonderful spectacle.
An important part of playing in a pipe band is the specific dress that is worm, this allows members to feel part of Scottish Heritage and the impressive look of the uniform adds to the spectacle.
Anna Murray is Head of Marketing at The Scotland Kilt Company - a family run business based in Edinburgh. For more information about ladieswear including measuring yourself for a kilt and choosing your tartan visit
http://www.thescotlandkiltcompany.co.uk/
email info@thescotlandkiltcompany.co.uk
Or call 0131 225 3555
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