Pipers set to mark 100 years
A SOUTH Otago band is using its centenary as a springboard to its next 100 years of Highland heritage.
Balclutha Pipe Band will be heading to the national finals in Dunedin next March, but it’s a journey that will have been more than a year in the making by that time.
In common with its peers across the country, the ‘‘small, keen’’ troupe of pipers and drummers has suffered from declining numbers in recent years, but has targeted its centenary year of 2019 to reverse the trend.
To that end, the band has been busily recruiting new blood since 2016, and now has a strong corps of young drummers, and 13 pipers who recently set out on their musical journey with what pipe major Malcolm Wilson describes as ‘‘the living beast’’ of the bagpipes.
‘‘It would be nice if one or two more of our youngsters could step up to the band in time, but we’re really recruiting for the longterm. The pipes can be a temperamental instrument, but when they go, they go good. There’s nothing quite like them for drawing you in.’’
Since a full competition band required at least 12 pipers, Balclutha’s current complement of seven experienced players would require bolstering, Mr Wilson said.
‘‘It’s not unusual to draw in players from other bands that aren’t going to nationals, so we’re pretty hopeful we’ll get there, with a little help from friends.’’
The centenary was also an opportunity for a wardrobe makeover.
‘‘We’re in the process of sharpening up our uniform, and bringing it into the 21st century. We intend to look our best up on stage next year.’’
Shirt, waistcoat and kilt could cost as much as $1400 per person, and there were matters other than style alone to consider.
‘‘The waistcoats need to have a particular nap to grip the pipes correctly, so a few of our members are testing them out right now.’’
However, Mr Wilson said sharp threads and youthful enthusiasm were no substitute for practice, and the band had been working on its 12 competi tion tunes since earlier this year.
‘‘Pipe bands are an important part of southern heritage, and we’re proud to be continuing that tradition here in Balclutha. We’ll be working hard to put in our very best performance for our 100th.’’