RADFPB

 

 History suggests that bag piping has a long traditional association with firehouses, as is the case with the formation of the Reno & District Firefighters Pipe Band, established in 2003 by SFC. Mike Connell. The Band was formed in response to post 9/11 sensibilities and to a growing interest in the public recognition of these fine instruments and their tradition in the northern Nevada community.

Until recently there was only one local area Bagpipe Band.  An increase in the  popularity of piping and drumming lead many area pipers and drummers to want to engage in serious amateur-level competition.  As a result, the Reno & District  Firefighters Pipe Band was established.  Drawing members from the original group, plus new players from a broader community, the 19-member Pipe Band practices weekly and is committed to actively performing and competing in front of more than 175,000 fans in many different Nevada and California venue sites.

Participating players, ranging in age from 13 to 70 years of age and in many diverse professions, come from all over the region  including Reno/Sparks, Loyalton, Truckee, Dayton, Susanville, among others.  Though closely aligned with a traditional Celtic heritage, the Pipe Band is open to all persons interested in piping and drumming competition.  A good many of the band members are young people who are piping and drumming students willing to carry on the rich tradition of the community’s Scottish culture.  Though some equipment and the traditional uniforms are maintained by the Band, each piper acquires their own instrument.  The group’s repertoire is drawn from traditional material, as well as introducing more modern arrangements. 

In just three short years, of competition, the group already participates in 7-9 regional competitions including appearances at the Queen Mary in Long Beach, and at games hosted in Woodland, Pomona, San Diego, Monterey, Pleasanton  and Dixon, California.  Thus far the Band has exceeded expectations by placing repeatedly amongst the best bands, frequently as high as 2^nd or 1^st place, in these highly competitive formats.

Annually, the Band also makes more than a dozen local area appearances throughout northern Nevada, including the Celtic Celebration festival and Nevada Day parade in October.  The Band continues to make appearances as part of its ceremonial presence with the Reno Firefighters. 

Lessons are held on every Tuesday in Reno, Nevada. Skills on the practice chanter, bagpipes, and drums are taught every week.