Membership and Tuition

The Blue Mountains Pipe Band is currently accepting new memberships. We welcome pipers and drummers of all ages and levels of experience. The band also has an active tuition program which caters for junior novices as well as for those who simply wish to improve their existing skills.

Why join a Pipe Band?

The culture of Pipe Bands is one based on friendship and strong family values. At the Blue Mountains Pipe Band we welcome newcomers and their families into our fold from their very first visit, and encourage you to feel at home in our many social gatherings. We are proud to carry on the traditions of our Scottish heritage and delight in passing these traditions and skills onto new generations of learners and enthusiasts.

What activities are the band involved in?

The Blue Mountains Pipe Band are regular performers at a large range of cultural events throughout the mountains, from street marches to community fundraising events. We often perform at business and private functions, and many of our members are experienced in performing at weddings. The band is also very accomplished in the competition field.

What instruments can I learn?

We are currently providing tuition for the Tenor Drum, the Side Drum, and the Bagpipes. The usual minimum age for tuition is ten years of age, however this is a guide for novice tuition only. Children with previous musical experience or tuition may be accepted at a younger age.

What do I need to get started?

The band supplies all equipment required to our learners. You are not required to purchase any uniforms or instruments until such time as you graduate from tuition and begin playing with the band at public or private events. At that time all uniforms are supplied by the band at no charge, with the exception of a white shirt which you must supply. Most of our drummers use drums owned by the band, however pipers must purchase their own bagpipes prior to playing with the band at public or private events.

What does it cost?

The Blue Mountains Pipe Band does not charge any tuition fees to learners or registration fees to members. There are no other hidden or ongoing charges.

Who am I taught by?

All tuition is provided by our senior pipers and drummers. These are members with many years experience in playing, competing and teaching. This tuition is supervised directly by our Pipe Major and Drum Sergeant, both of whom have Grade 1 Competition experience to their names. Full details of our members’ biographies can be viewed on our band website.

Are experienced drummers and pipers welcome?

Of course! Although we consider tuition of beginners to be a very important band activity, we also welcome more experienced pipers and drummers to join us when we step out in public or on the competition field.

How do I join the Blue Mountains Pipe Band?

Please refer to our Contact Us page for general enquiries about memberships and tuition.

Alternatively we invite you to join us at band practice on any Friday evening at 8:00pm at the Warrimoo Community Hall, Great Western Highway, Warrimoo.