The Band continually seeks new members and appreciates the effort it takes to develop playing and performance skills. In reaching out to prospective members, the Band has set up several preliminary levels of association before full membership is attained. In doing so, it provides beginning players the opportunity to develop the skills needed for playing in a band situation instead of restricting participation only to those players who already have these skills.

THE BENEFITS. . .

Some of the many benefits we provide include:

* free uniforms
* travel stipends
* leadership opportunities
* equipment and supplies for pipers and drummers
* fun atmosphere
* tuition assistance for qualified applicants
* support for your individual growth and improvement
* social events with great food

Band members are available to instruct you in the piping and drumming arts. A unique scholarship program enables more advanced students to attend summer schools and take advantage of other educational opportunities such as special workshops staged periodically throughout the region.

BE A PIPER. . .

No, it doesn't require the largest set of lungs in town to play the bagpipes. Beginners start off on the practice chanter, a recorder-like instrument, then graduate to the bagpipe itself once they have demonstrated their mastery of "fingering". Expect it to take several years to reach a good playing standard. The younger you are, the easier it can be. Individuals from middle school age on can become proficient players in less than two years of effort. Adults may find they are able to learn the pipes more easily if they have studied another instrument previously.

BE A DRUMMER. . .

The incomparable sound of a pipe band's snare drumming stems from the unique tone of the drums, the variety of movements played, and the style of composition. Drummers educated in other styles can easily make the transition--especially drummers who have played in DCI or fife and drum corps.

TO DONATE TO THE SCHOLARSHIP FUND. . .

The Schenectady Pipe Band's Scholarship Fund enables area piping and drumming students to take advantage of special summer programs. Won't you please donate to help further our musical traditions? Your contributions are tax deductible under the Internal Revenue Code 501(c)(3).