West Midlands Fire Service’s Bagpipe Band is on the look out for new members to help it continue its proud record of fundraising for charity.
The band, which is in its 63rd year, performs regularly throughout the year at Fire Service functions and public engagements. It also competes in a variety of competitions against other bands from across the country.
It has a proud record of charity fundraising on behalf of its two adopted charities, Cancer Research and the Fire Service National Benevolent Fund.
Pipe Major Robert Gardner said: “Band membership, as either pipers or drummers, is open to anybody and there are no age restrictions. No previous experience is required and tuition is available free of charge. We can even loan you equipment, so it really doesn’t have to cost you anything to learn to play this great instrument.
“Young people and children learn the pipes as easily as anyone else. Being part of the band can help you develop a new skill and its great fun. You get to go to many functions like weddings and parades, and it certainly looks good on job applications.”
The band will be performing at the St Patrick’s Day Parade in Birmingham on Sunday (14 March) where they will be wearing their traditional attire, featuring kilts. Originally formed as the Birmingham Scottish Pipe Band in 1946, they became affiliated to West Midlands Fire Service in 1992.
Anyone interested in joining the band or finding out more or would like to engage the band for your function, please email the band secretary, Anita Guy, anita@snowgoosesolutions.co.uk or phone the Pipe Major Robert Gardner on 07969 914562. Please see our website for more details at: www.wmfspipeband.net
Rehearsals are held at the Safeside complex, West Midlands Fire Service HQ, Vauxhall Road, Birmingham B7 4HW on Thursdays from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Pipers are also available for demonstrations on radio or at local schools.
