Sporting a new look in 2012
Torphichen & Bathgate Pipe Band will be sporting a new look for 2012, not only with a change of tartan and drum hardware, but with an influx of new players.
The band is moving from the blue Modern Skye tartan, which it has donned for 25 years, in favour of the purple and green Isle of Skye sett, a decision partly made because of the availability of the tartan with Scottish kilt rental companies, enabling the band to kit out guest players more easily.
"I've been involved with the band for two years now and changing the tartan was always high on our priority list," said Pipe-Major Stuart Shedden. "We've decided to go for the Isle of Skye for two main reasons: firstly it still holds with the Skye theme and secondly, should any guest players wish to play with the band then it makes life a lot simpler as the tartan is available for hire in many kilt-makers."
Along with the new look kilts, the band will be adding "Ghost Chrome" metalwork to its Andante snare drums, courtesy of the drum-maker. The band becoming one of the first to have access to the new design.
Shedden said that Torphichen, now in its third year in Grade 1, currently has 22 pipers, nine snares and a bass-section of eight – the most personnel the band has ever had. He said that, "The interest and players asking to join the band has been overwhelming since the end of the season."
The funding for the new equipment has come as a result of a lot of hard work and fundraising by the band and the committee. Indeed special mention must go to our Band Manager Derek McKie who has raised a lot of funds himself.
The band is also shifting practice location from Fauldhouse to Bathgate, a venue more accessible from the M8 motorway, thus cutting travel time for many members.
Finally, the band has also struck a deal to use Protection Racket drum cases, becoming the first pipe band to become an official ProRacket artist.
About Us
Torphichen and Bathgate Pipe Band are based in West Lothian, Scotland and compete in Grade 1.
We are one of the oldest civilian pipe bands still in operation today. Established in 1902 we attract our players from all over Scotland and beyond. The band is led by Pipe Major Stuart Shedden and Leading Drummer Callum Firth.
The band practice on a Monday and Thursday evening in Fauldhouse Miners Welfare from 7:30pm until 10pm and we are always interested to hear from any players with the ability to compete in Grade 1. Our practices have an open door policy and members of the public and potential new players are welcome, alternatively if interested in playing with the band feel free to contact us.
We survive mostly from our own dedication and hard work, playing at engagements throughout the year and continually fund raising. This is managed whilst continuing hour upon hour of practice to continue succeeding on the competition field.
We are also currently interested in hearing from any company who would like to explore a partnership opportunity with Torphichen and Bathgate Pipe Band, allowing the band to remain focused on reaching their target of being one of the top six pipe bands in the World.
