The Cambridgeshire Caledonian Pipe Band is a community pipe band who play all over Cambridgeshire and the surrounding counties, spreading the music of the bagpipes throughout the wider East of England area.

Formed in 2009 by a small group of pipers, the band has grown to number over 20 performing musicians today on bagpipes or drums; in the process becoming one of the largest parade pipe bands in England. The band operates on a not for profit basis with all proceeds gained from performances being reinvested in the band instruments, uniform and practice facilities. And they’re still looking to grow! So if you fancy yourself as a potential piper or drummer, whether experienced in any way or not, read on...

Drum Sergeant Iain Soutter teaches pipe band drumming on each of the bands bass, tenor and snare drums. “We offer completely free tuition on any instrument in the band and provide practice instruments too. All we ask for is dedication, a bit of practise, and a shared enthusiasm for the music with the rest of the band. I’ve had learners from all age groups and backgrounds, indeed there is an age range in my drum corps right now of some 50 years! I always say that having some musical experience helps, but it is far from a necessity and as long as you come along and have fun then that’s most of the battle right there. We’re a social band primarily so while we take our music very seriously and stive for the best, putting on a show and having fun are our priorities. Band practices happen across North Cambridgeshire with learner classes most often in StIves, and full band practices on alternate weekends in either Wyton or Wittering. Anyone is welcome to pop along, just get in touch! We travel from all over so if transport is a concern just contact us and we can probably arrange a car-share.”

The band spends most of the summer months playing at fetes, carnivals and concerts all over Cambridgeshire. This year the band’s highlights have included two further afield trips playing in Surrey as part of a Rod Stewart concert, and further afied still as the band travelled abroad for the first time playing for 3 days at the Loreley Military Tattoo in Germany. A typical performance will see the band in full uniform leading a parade on the march, or forming a static circle where they perform a wide variety of tunes including public favourites such as Amazing Grace, Highland Cathedral and Scotland the Brave. In winter they venture out less but can be seen at Remembrance Sunday and at a mix of events in the run up to Christmas. Band events range from carnivals to weddings, concerts, ceremonies for Cambridgeshire Police, and even on one occasion a school prom! The band will soon visit the Cambridge city centre performing at various central locations throughout the afternoon of Saturday 12th September - it will be a free show not to be missed!

Details of the band’s upcoming performances are available on their website, www.ccpb.org.uk where you can view pictures and videos of the band in action, book the band for a performance and find out anything else you may like to know. Alternatively, catch a band member in Cambridge on the 12th, or contact Iain directly on 07745 925544 who will deal with any enquiries.