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Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue
Pipe & Drum Band

 
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E-Mail: Scott Jurasz
 

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What is the tartan that the band wears?
The PBCFR Pipes and Drums band wears the MacPhersons tartan:
MacPherson tartan

Badenoch, Scotland is the home of the MacPhersons who claim to have been the early chiefs of Clan Chattan before that clan name came under Mackintosh leadership. The family of Cluny is the chief branch but there are many important and famous branches. The MacPhersons were Royalists and aided the Royal Stuarts during the Jacobite Risings of 1715 and 1745. After the 1745 rising, Cluny MacPherson, who assistend Prince Charlie to escape, was in hidiing on his own estate for nine years and a reward of £1,000 was offered for his capture. Cluny Castle was burned by Government troops, but was later rebuilt. In 1784, the estates that had been forfeited were restored, but were dold on the death of the 17th chief in .

For more information about the MacPherson clan, please read this Wikipedia article.

What songs do you play?
To see a complete list of the songs we play, and to hear some samples, please visit our Songs We Play page.
Do I have to be a firefighter to join?
Yes, only active PBCFR personnel are eligible.
Do I have to be a local firefighter to join?
The band has two types of memberships available. Regular membership and for those outside of our normal area, we have a satellite membership. Satellite members may perform with the band when in their area and may wear their local tartan. Some people have joined as satellite members from long distance just to be a part of a Florida firefighter pipe band.
What will I be required to purchase to get started?
Initially, if you are a piping student you will be required to purchase a practice chanter and a tutor book. The cost for these items is approximately $90.00. If you are a drumming student you will be required to purchase a practice pad and drumsticks at a cost of approximately $55.00. This is, of course, assuming that you do not already have these items. No other purchases will be necessary until you are ready to perform with the band.
How much will my lessons cost?
There is no cost for lessons for band members. Teaching is initially done on a one-on-one basis, until you have progressed to the point of group sessions. Then you will attend regular practice with the rest of the band members.
When will I know when I'm ready to progress from the practice chanter to the bagpipe?
The Pipe Major and instructor will decide when you have progressed to the point where you should consider purchasing your bagpipes. Although it depends on the student, most are ready to make this transition in approximately one year. You will be given ample notice, in order to allow you time to research your options. Once you've purchased your pipes, your student lesson will include instruction on the bagpipe.
Will someone teach me how to care for, and tune, my bagpipe or drum?
Such information will be dispensed in the normal day-to-day operation of the Band. However, if you have specific questions/issues, feel free to address these with any senior piper or drummer in the Band. These are items that can be addressed after normal practice.
What's expected of me?
We expect the band to receive a reasonable priority when scheduling your activities. If you are unable to attend a band function please contact your section leader (Pipe/Drum Sergeant), the Pipe Major or any member of the board. Some engagements stipulate the number of players, so it is important that we be able to count on you if you have committed to a performance. Attendance is of importance during your student training as well, since special provisions are made to have an instructor available to you at practice.
How soon will I be able to perform with the band?
That depends on how quickly you progress in your training. The Pipe Major will determine when you have reached the proficiency level required to perform with the band. However, at any time prior to your performance debut the band would strongly encourage you to lend your support by marching in the color guard. This is an excellent opportunity to participate and gain valuable experience at the same time. The items you will need to take part in this way are a Glengarry (hat), hat badge, black dress slacks (uniform pants), band uniform shirt with your department badge and your department patch on the left shoulder, a black tie and black shoes (shiny finish). The band will provide the remainder of the color guard uniform.
Does the band provide the marching uniform?
The band issues certain uniform items and some items that are of a personal nature must be purchased. The band will issue a few items but most of the uniform must be purchased by the band member.
I already own a kilt in my clan tartan. Am I allowed to wear it when playing with the band?
For reasons of uniformity, the band has selected the Leslie Red Modern as our official band tartan. Once you have a kilt with the band tartan, you will be required to wear it to all band performances.
Who buys the instruments?
Due to hygienic considerations and differences in personal tastes, it will be the responsibility of the individual to purchase their own bagpipes. You should expect an outlay of $1,100 - $1,500 for a set of pipes. More expensive models are available, depending upon the extent of ornamentation you desire, but are not necessary to perform with the band. Drums and harnesses are provided by the band and remain the property of the band.
Does the band compete?
No. It is not in keeping with the primary goals of this organization to participate in competition as a group. However, should you wish to compete on an individual basis at some point in time, it will be at your discretion and will be encouraged for the learning experience it provides.
Where are the best sources for bagpiping and drumming equipment and supplies?
Contact the Pipe Major, Pipe Sergeants or Drum Sergeants regarding the sources used by the Band for highland clothing, equipment and supplies.