Preparing for Band Membership

The Sir James McDonald Pipe Band seeks boys and girls through age 18
to join them for the special musical experience and camaraderie
offered by piping or drumming in a youth band setting.

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The Sir James McDonald Pipe Band, the Northwest's premier youth bagpipe band, provides a rewarding musical focus, while carrying on valued traditions of pipe band participation for each band member and creating an enjoyable musical experience for audiences. Band activities include competitive events, fund-raising performances, instructional camps/workshops, and special group events.

Young people must achieve an acceptable level of competency on the bagpipe or drum through a program of private or semi-private instruction. The band instructors may be available for private instruction (at a fee), or they may recommend another suitable instructor. Lessons are available in various parts of the Portland/Vancouver metropolitan area. Parents are responsible for the expense of this instruction.

Beginning piping and drumming students should generally be between the ages of eight and 14, although musical background and other factors may allow for some variance.

Prior to admission, and throughout the period of participation in the band, members are required to continue with regular private or semi-private instruction, apart from the band rehearsals. Most attend at least one instructional workshop or camp each year. Scholarship assistance for these activities may be available on a limited basis.