BAND HISTORY

The RCMP ‘H’ Division Pipes & Drums was formed in May 2004 and is one of seven RCMP volunteer pipe bands across the country. The first band was formed in time for the RCMP’s 125th anniversary in 1998 and was featured at the Nova Scotia International Tattoo that year. Since then bands have been formed across the country and are now located in Moncton, NB; Montreal, QC; Ottawa, ON; Regina, SK; Edmonton, AB; Vancouver, BC; and Halifax, NS.

The RCMP ‘H’ Division Pipes & Drums is comprised of police and citizen volunteers from throughout Nova Scotia who come together to share and showcase their musical talent and to bring the community closer to its national police. Since its first public appearance at the annual Apple Blossom Parade in Kentville, NS, in May 2005, the band has been in constant demand.

The band has a wealth of talent and experience in its ranks with most members having played in bands from Grade 4 to Grade I. Currently, there are four (4) former pipes major playing in the ranks including one who achieved his certificate from the Army School of Piping at Edinburgh Castle. While ‘performance’ rather than competition is the band’s focus, it still is seeking to produce a high quality band in both ‘looks and sound’.

The band is self-supporting and raises its own funds by taking part in a wide range of activities including parades, concerts and other special events.  The band also performs at charity fundraisers; special interest group concerts (e.g. hospitals, schools, retirement homes); sport and cultural awards ceremonies; fairs, festivals, memorial services; state and official occasions, and RCMP ceremonial functions.

The band proudly wears the RCMP tartan kilt and world famous red serge tunic as its dress uniform. The tartan was designed in 1997 with the colours chosen taken from the symbols of the RCMP.

The RCMP ‘H’ Division Pipes & Drums is based in Halifax, NS, and is under the direction of: