Dear Potential Band Member,
Thank you for considering joining the Pikes Peak Highlanders. We are one of Colorado's oldest pipe bands. Formed in 1985, we have a colorful history filled with many accomplishments and accolades. We are one of the few bands in Colorado that still outfits themselves in the traditional Highland Regimental attire and we are the only band in Colorado that dresses a Color Guard. I hope you consider becoming a part of the Celtic community and help us support the traditions of the Great Highland Bagpipe and drums.
Some of the benefits the band offers:
Instruction* is available for those wanting to learn Bagpipes or Drums and for those wanting to become involved in the Color Guard. (*) Instruction in available in the following disciplines:
- Great Highland Bagpipes (GHB)
- Drums - Bass, Snare or Tenor
- Color Guard
(*) Note: Instruction is offered to those individuals that intend to commit to joining and playing with the band when proficient on their instrument. This instruction is provided by members of the Pipe Band for a fee. Bottomline - Instruction for students is not free.....Sorry! If you are interested, contact the Pipe Major.
Free Uniforms:
The complete uniform cost is approximately $1,500.00 each. We provide the initial issue to you at no cost once you have successfully mastered the set of tunes for kilting. You are required to purchase any replacement items and some personal items that we do not issue. We are a paramilitary pipe band and our appearance reflects the Scottish Highland Regiments.
You must provide:
- Shoes (military black low quarters)
- Glengarries (about $65)
- White Summer Shirt (about $20)
- Great Highland Bagpipes for pipers
- Inverness Cape (black, repeat black!!, about $75)
We provide:
- Kilt
- Sporran /Sporran Chain
- Flashes
- Doublet
- Belt/Buckle and Crossbelts
- Music and Book
- Cap Badge and RCAF Kilt Pin
- Drone Cords and Pipe Ribbons
- Drum / Drum Harness
- Epaulets
- Plaid
- Spats
- Patches, Chevrons as needed
- Feather Bonnet (drummers and Color Guard) and Hackle
- Bag Cover and Reeds (Chanter)
Discounted Hotel Fare At Traveling Events:
The band will pay a portion of your lodging at all away events, at the lodging selected by the band.
Free or discounted Tickets For All Highland Games And Events:
This includes family members at most games and most events.
Discounted Food At All Games:
The band furnishes food and drinks for all members and families at the games for a fee of $5.00 per person per day of the event. Children under 12 are free.
Band Member Requirements:
- Annual dues. $60 per person or $90 per family, paid annually or in semi-annual installments (Jan and June.)
- 50% attendance at all practices (Thursday evenings)
- Participation at 50% of all events events (all events other than military memorials are posted on the Band calendar)
- Practice on your own time not band time (Band night is rehersal night) and become proficient with your instrument
- Properly wear the uniform of the day at all events
- Purchase personal uniform items
- Purchase a practice chanter and band music book (pipers) and eventually bagpipes
- Purchase drum sticks or mallets (drummers)
Color Guard:
As you are learning your instrument and the tunes required for kilting, I encourage you to join the Color Guard so you can learn to march the Highland way. This gives you an opportunity to participate in and enjoy being a member of the Band at various functions.
I hope you decide to become a part of our band. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions regarding the band. I look forward to seeing you soon!
