About Us
We are The Pipes and Drums of the Wessex Highlanders, formed in September 2001. Since that time, we have increased our membership, with not only new pipers and drummers, but with experienced musicians who have migrated to us, because of our relaxed and friendly attitude. The band exists for its members, and our principal aim is to have fun and entertain. We like nothing better to share our hobby with others, and that means sharing our music!
We meet once a week on Tuesday Evenings for practice, and at various other times during the year when performing. We wear the Kilt, and Argyll Jacket, together with the Glengarry hat, dressed with a red feather Hackle. Our members wear the tartan of their choice.
The band is directed by the Pipe Major, Ron Aylin. There are two sections - the Pipes and the Drums, as the name suggests. Both are equally important to the band and each compliments the other. Ron is assisted in his role by the Pipe Segeant, Iain Grant, and the Drum Major, Gerry Berrow. All three have a great deal of experience in the piping and drumming circle and all three can be spotted by their red sashes, when on parade. When playing in a marching formation, the Pipe Major is in the front row, at the right side of the Pipers. The Pipe Segeant is on the left front corner. The Drum Major is the one right at the front, with the Mace.
At this time, there are approximately 17 experienced pipers, and 5 side drummers. One tenor drummer, and one Bass drummer complete the lineup. The pipers play the Great Highland Bagpipe, and the drummers play side drums. In pipe band terms, our drum corps is a little on the small side - we could do with extra numbers.
Having brought up the subject of recruiting, we are always on the lookout for new members. No previous musical knowledge is necessary; it doesn't matter if you are in your teens or your retirement - male or female - all are welcome. Unlike some clubs or bands, it doesn't matter if you can't make every practice or performance. Unlike conventional bands where one instrument might be vital to the whole sound, we don't miss the odd piper or drummer. On occasion we call on a variety of friends in other bands who help us out. The community of pipe bands in the South West is quite close. Check out some of our links.
We continue to look for interesting and varied places to entertain. In the past we have played at the Cheltenham Festival, The Royal Bath and West Show, performed on the deck of an aircraft carrier, and numerous local fetes and carnivals. We spent 4 days at the International Festival of the Sea, and also took part in the Royal Star and Garter tattoo at Fort Nelson, in aid of the charity homes. This year we will be hosting another charity concert, which we hope will become an annual event. We are also available for hire (weddings, special events and for promotional work) either as a band, mini band and we can supply solo pipers for any occasion. Some of our pipers have their own full Number 1 dress uniforms, with feather bonnets, spats and full plaid shawls.
If you see us at any of our events (look at the calendar and see where we are playing) come up and speak to us. We enjoy talking to our audience - and we certainly don't bite.
