Pipe bands plan to play in unison

Academy for pipers

Despite being close geographically, the Napier Pipe Band (NPB) and Hawke’s Bay Caledonian Pipe Band (formerly Hastings Pipe Band), have always operated independently.

That is until recently, when both parties signed a collaboration agreement. One of the primary purposes is to work together to recruit, teach and encourage youth in the art of piping and drumming.

With the exception of Scotland, bands across the world are struggling to survive. More than a decade ago, the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association developed and rolled out a teaching programme for state-run Scottish schools. Today, thanks to this initiative, piping and drumming in Scotland is enjoying a massive renaissance.

Pipe Majors Kerry Marshall (NPB) and Jarrod Cawood (HBCPB) have been in close discussions about how a similar teaching programme could be rolled out in Hawke’s Bay.

With the support of their respective band members, the agreement aims to establish a Youth Piping and Drumming Academy in the Napier and Hastings region.

It will teach youngsters in the art of piping and drumming, allowing them to progress to meet individual needs, says Napier Pipe band chair Julie Baxter.

“The Napier Pipe Band is very much a communityfocused band, parading at well over 100 events during any year,” Julie says.

This includes the Christmas and Art Deco Parades, Anzac Remembrance, Blossom Festival as well as concerts and such venues as Retirement Villages.

The Hawke’s Bay Caledonian Pipe Band, while also supporting local parades, is more competition-focused and takes part in the National Pipe Band Championships.

“The strengths of each of these bands will allow newcomers to play at whatever level they choose, coming together as one mass band for community parades.”

Armistice Day was the first parade where the bands played as one — the Napier Christmas Parade will be the next.

“Both bands are very excited about the future.

“While there is much work to be done, if passion alone can make this work, then success is surely guaranteed.”