Customer Spotlight: Denver and District Pipe Band
We’re proud to feature the Denver and District Pipe Band as our Customer Spotlight this month! We’ve worked with many pipe bands, so we know March is their busiest season in honor of St Patrick’s Day. Drew McPheete graciously took time out of his preparations to answer a few questions for us.
Can you tell us more about your pipe band?
The Denver and District Pipe Band formed in 2009 by merging together two bands that started in the 70’s. The bands were shrinking and so we decided to combine to ensure a more stable and long term future. We have about 30 people at the moment in the band, and we’ve had up to 40 people. The band is completely self funded.
We teach bagpiping and Scottish drumming, perform all around Colorado and compete against other bagpipe bands at Scottish Festivals throughout the west. We wear a kilt featuring the Modern MacCallum tartan. Getting a branded tie was essential for us to create a unified image.
What has your experience been like with the band?
Since I have been a drummer for over 50 years, I’ve been the drum sergeant the entire time. I also am the band business manager. I enjoy teaching, composing music, and performing in the public in all kinds of places.
Do you have any upcoming events that you are excited about?
We are busy preparing for the events surrounding St Patrick’s Day (where we will be performing over 15 shows throughout the weekend), and preparing for the upcoming competition season by learning new music and getting some top notch instruction.
Do you have any traditions as a band?
The band has had great success in competition over the years, including a span of 3 years where we were undefeated. We also won the prize for Rocky Mountain Champions for 5 years in a row.
