Students

Grade V Band Information

The Grade V band is one of two bands in the Glengarry Pipe Band organisation. It is meant to act as a training experience for developing pipers and drummers as they work to better themselves. The goal is to have fun, learn about piping and drumming, win contests, and graduate members to our higher grade band(s). There are expectations of membership. Hopefully this document will explain some of the finer points of being in the pipe band.

1. When is Practice ? Our regular practice times are Saturday at 12:30pm and Monday nights at 7pm. As we get closer to gigs and contests, the amount of practise time will increase. Expect both longer practices and additional days as we get into the summer.

2. Are we playing at the Glengarry Highland Games? Yes. We are fielding a band for the Glengarry Highland Games. More on this to come.

3. What games are we playing at? Once more games have published their dates we will hand out an exact schedule. On the horizon are: Toronto Indoor (TBA) Smith Fall’s Spring Fling (early April) Kemptville Indoor Games (early April/late May) Kingston Celtfest (Late May) Georgetown -or- Oshawa -or- Cambridge -or- Syracuse Maxville/Montreal (July 29-31) Almonte (Late August) Loon Mountain? (maybe)

4. Do we just play contests at highland games? No. The band enjoys giving back to the community and also needs to raise funds to stay around. Parades and concerts are part of what we do. More information on these events as they are booked.

5. Does everyone play in the contest? No. Only the pipers/drummers who have learned the music and are able to play the medley through at a good standard are allowed to compete. It is a privilege, not a right of participation.

6.Will I be able to participate in massed bands? Yes! There is a massed bands before and after every contest. We are expected to field a band during both.

7. What Uniform do I need? You need a kilt, long sleeved white shirt, white pop corn top white hose, black tie, sporran, black shoes and a Glengarry. Vests may become part of our uniform as our season progresses.

8. I have a kit problem...what do I do? Keeping track and taking care of your kit is your responsibility. Should any questions of emergencies arise, please direct them to our illustrious quartermaster, Shelley MacPhee. Also, please sort out your kit 7 days before any event. This gives you appropriate time to get it cleaned/find all the parts. Last minute sporran emergencies are to be avoided.

9. What do you mean by pop corn white socks? This is the sock we use in the grade V band . They are available at many Scottish vendors.. Shop around for the best price, but Ben Bhraggie who will be at the games will carry them.

10. I have a pair of beige socks. Will they do? No, no and no!

11. Where do I get a black tie? We like everyone to have the same tie . Shelley has black ties for sale for $15.00.

12. I do not have gillie bhroques. is that ok? Yes it is ok for now. However you will need ghillie brogues later eventually so start budgeting now.

13. Do I need to let someone know if I won’t be able to make a practise or a contest or a gig? Yes, yes and yes!

14. Who should I contact and how should I get ahold of them? Drummers, direct your inquiries to Charlie. Pipers, feel free to contact Jason Baird or Ross Davison. For any general band inquiries or good old fashioned griping, please contact Ross Davison and Shelley MacPhee. **Email is the preferred method of contact.**

15. How do I know what is going on? Stay in the loop. Listen up at practise. Announcements are usually made at the end. Check your email...lots. If you’ve missed a practise, contact someone who was there and have them fill you in. If all else fails, drop one of the people mentioned above a line.

16.Why do you correspond by e mail? Simply because of time. It is much easier to send a bulk email than to spend 2 hours on the phone leaving messages.

17. Do you expect me to check my e mail concerning band functions? YES WE DO !! It is the easiest way to get messages out out band members. ALWAYS CHECK YOUR E MAIL BEFORE A BAND PRACTICE OR A EVENT !! This a good habit to get into as almost ALL our corespondance is done by e mail

18. I don't have e mail? let me know

19. Do you need my e mail address? YES!!!! Please and thank you If you are under 18 I need your e mail and your parents otherwise just your own!

Pipe Major - Ross Davison - rossdavison@gmail.com

Pipe Sergeant - Jason Baird - mr.baird76@hotmail.com

Band Manager - Shelley MacPhee - glengarryschoolpipeanddrum@gmail.com