North American Pipe Band

News and Updates

Pipes and Drums Article

Posted on 2/5/2009 by the North American Pipe Band

North American band assigned to Grade 1

Published: February 03, 2009

The recently formed North American Pipe Band has been made Grade 1 by its home organization, the Western United States Pipe Band Association, making it the fourth Grade 1 band in the United States and the twelfth from North America.

The decision was made via unanimous votes by both the WUSPBA's Executive Committee and Music Board.

"It is exciting for all of us to have another Grade I band in the association," wrote Kylene Tanner, WUSPBA band registrar, in her confirmation letter to the band. "The level of piping and drumming overall tends to improve as there is increased competition at the highest levels. We anticipate that the addition of your band to the mix will add much to the bands you come in contact with."

The North American Pipe Band's appointment to the top grade after its formation follows those of other bands, including the Fife Constabulary and Spirit of Scotland, which were both made Grade 1 in their inaugural year by the RSPBA.

The North American band also revealed that prominent composer R.S. MacDonald has joined, traveling from Brisbane, Australia, to the band's base in Los Angeles. MacDonald is the current Pipe-Major of the Queensland Police Pipe Band.

Congratulations! The North American Pipe Band

Posted on 2/3/2009 by the North American Pipe Band

Western United States Pipe Band Association

February 3, 2009

Gentlemen, on behalf of the WUSPBA Executive Committee and the Music Board, we welcome the North American Pipe Band to the WUSPBA family as a competitive Grade I band.

When a band is considered for grading at any level above Grade IV, the Music Board makes a recommendation to the Executive Committee who then votes on the question. I am pleased to inform you that your request was approved unanimously by both the Music Board and the Executive Committee. This is not a decision that we take lightly. It says much for your organization that this approval was granted so promptly.

We recognize that the task of gathering musicians of the highest caliber is not an easy one, and we congratulate you on your efforts. We look forward to seeing what you accomplish as you mature as an organization.

It is exciting for all of us to have another Grade I band in the association. The level of piping and drumming overall tends to improve as there is increased competition at the highest levels. We anticipate that the addition of your band to the mix will add much to the bands you come in contact with.

Please contact me or any member of the Executive Committee for any questions or concerns you may have. You have our support and our best wishes for the future.

Regards,

Kylene Tanner

WUSPBA Band Registrar

tannerreg@comcast.net

Another Positive Band Rehearsal

Posted on 1/21/2009 by the North American Pipe Band

The North American Pipe Band had their second band rehearsal yesterday with full participation from all the local band members including pipers, snare drummers and midsection! We intend to keep this type of positive momentum going with the local bandsmen. We will be having a full band rehearsal weekend in the middle of February and continue to add new players to the roster as they commit. The band is definitely moving forward at full steam.

First Official Rehearsal

Posted on 1/14/2009 by the North American Pipe Band

The band’s inaugural rehearsal will be held this evening, January 14th. This marks the first official time the local members of the band will meet to begin working as a group on this year’s competition material. Plans are underway to determine the band’s full schedule for 2009.

Band Welcomes Renowned Composer

Posted on 1/12/2009 by the North American Pipe Band

The band is very happy to welcome its newest piper, R.S. MacDonald. Roddy will be traveling from his home in Brisbane, Australia, to participate with NAPB for the coming season. The band will not only benefit from Roddy's playing skills, but will also be debuting a brand new composition as the closing tune of the medley.