Pipers and Drummers Wanted for USU Bagpipe and Drum Band
The USU Scotsmen Pipe and Drum Corps, a new performing group at Utah State University, is searching throughout northern Utah for experienced or beginner bagpipers and drummers alike.
USU’s pipe and drum corps was created in fall 2010 after Craig Jessop, dean of the Caine College of the Arts, contacted Utah State freshman Matt Earl, who has played the bagpipe for nine years.
“Bagpipes are stirring instruments with a rich heritage,” Jessop said. “Having a full bagpipe corps on campus will add another incredible dynamic to Utah State. Both the Caine and Eccles families, who greatly contribute to Utah State, have Scottish lineage, and not only do the pipes nobly represent them but they also tie to the Aggie fight song, The Scotsman.”
The USU Scotsmen Pipe and Drum Corps will perform on campus, throughout the community and compete against other pipe bands.
“The most rewarding part of learning to play the bagpipe is the experience that comes when competing with a group of pipers and being able to rise to a higher level,” said Earl. “It doesn’t get any better than that.”
Earl has played his bagpipe at weddings, funerals, competitions and in parades.
“Although learning how to play the bagpipe takes a lot of time and dedication, we are willing to teach anyone who comes our way no matter what skill level they are,” said James Pitts, assistant USU biology professor and USU Scotsmen Pipe and Drum Corps faculty advisor. “This isn’t just for college students to be members of; it’s for the entire community.”
The USU Scotsmen Pipe and Drum Corps will perform an end-of-the-year concert, “Highlands,” Friday, April 30, at 7 p.m. in the USU Performance Hall.
For more information about joining the USU Scotsmen Pipe and Drum Corps, call 435-797-8872 or send an email to Pitts at james.pitts@usu.edu.
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Writer: Rachelle Nielson, 435-797-9203, rachelle.nielson@usu.edu
Contact: James Pitts, 435-797-8872, james.pitts@usu.edu
The USU Scotsmen Pipe and Drum Corps is looking for new members. The new group also plans an end-of-year concert at USU April 30.
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