Heatherbells Pipes & Drums looking to recruit
The Heatherbells Pipes & Drums has a long history in Pictou County and Louise Nichol wants that to continue.
“We have a fabulous bunch of kids, but we need more — we always need more,” said Nichol, who manages the 53-year-old pipe band, which performs in parades and other events — some of them for charity purposes.
As the majestic sound of bagpipes and the booming drums filled the Harbour Lights Campground on Saturday morning, Nichol said there are currently a dozen members of the group, “but we would love to have 20,” she added. Once a member of the band turns 18 years old, they are no longer with the Heatherbells, which is why there is turnover most years.
“It’s a youth band,” Nichol said, whose granddaughter Hayley started when she was seven years old and was a pipe major by the time she was a teenager. “We are the only pipes and drums youth band in Nova Scotia.” The band practices each Tuesday night at Northumberland Regional High School from September through June, and spent the summer practicing along the Pictou waterfront, in addition to their actual performances through the warmer months.
She said new members only need to buy a chanter for their pipes, or drum sticks and a practice pad, which are one-time purchases.
This summer alone, the Heatherbells have travelled to Pugwash, Bridgewater and P.E.I. to share their talents. In the past, they have played in front of such dignitaries as Queen Elizabeth, Prince Charles and Princess Anne.
Nichol said new members usually need some time to practice and rehearse before they perform in public.
“They’d start with us, but they wouldn’t necessarily be in the band until they are ready. There’s a lot of hard work and they have to practice, but we try to make it fun for them.”
Anyone seeking more information can call Nichol at (902) 7538050.