The Niagara Regional Police Pipe Band is encouraging newcomers and youngsters to join its complimentary music program, aiming to preserve the group’s renowned musical legacy. The initiative, known as the Big Noise teaching program, was established in 2013 in response to the observation made by the band’s manager, Peter MacKenzie, that all existing members were over the age of 60.
David Hunter, a seasoned drum major and retired detective staff sergeant from the Niagara Regional Police Service’s homicide unit, highlighted the importance of recruiting younger individuals to sustain the pipe band’s heritage as current members age. The program welcomes beginners and youth, including NRPS Const. Richard Hingley, who is undergoing training to assume the role of drum major within the band.
Participants like Hingley emphasized the sense of camaraderie and community fostered by the program, echoing sentiments shared by other members who have found fulfillment in belonging to the tight-knit musical family. The program’s accessibility is enhanced by its provision of instruments and uniforms at no cost, a stark contrast to the often expensive nature of high school music programs.
Volunteer drumming instructor NRPS Const. Jessica Martin underscored the value of offering free music education to local youth, drawing from her own experience of learning drums through a cadet program at a young age. The band members, including Martin, have showcased their talent across various regions, including Ontario, Nova Scotia, and Scotland, the birthplace of bagpipes.
Since its inception in 1994, the Niagara police band has achieved notable success, securing second place in the Grade 2 division at the 1998 World Pipe Band Championships in Scotland. Originally established as a parade band, they have performed at major regional events and fulfill a significant role in police funerals and memorials.
The program has provided a significant head start for young participants like Alexander Fleming, who, after joining nearly three years ago, now plays the bass drum during the band’s performances. Another member, 10-year-old Callum Sanderson, carries on his family’s piping tradition, mastering tunes like Amazing Grace and Scotland the Brave within a year of learning the bagpipes.
The band’s commitment to nurturing young talent is further exemplified by their acceptance of bagpipe donations and recycling of old instruments to support student musicians.