Join the Highlanders

Thank you for considering joining the Pikes Peak Highlanders. We hope you will consider becoming a part of the Celtic community and support the traditions of the Great Highland Bagpipe and drums. Formed in 1985, we are one of Colorado's oldest pipe bands, and we have a colorful history filled with many accomplishments and accolades.

Already play bagpipes or drums? Pipe and drum students are encouraged to attend our Kilting Practice, where you can learn our basic band tunes with other students preparing to join the Pikes Peak Highlanders. This practice is free of charge. Contact us for meeting times and location.

Individual lessons
Instruction is available for those wanting to learn our music. Lessons are available in the following disciplines:

• Great Highland Bagpipes (GHB)

• Drums (bass, snare, or tenor)

Note: Instruction is offered to individuals that intend to commit to joining and playing with the band when proficient on their instrument. We cannot train members for other bands or to become a soloist. Private instruction is provided by members of the band for a fee.

Color Guard
The Pikes Peak Highlanders have been the only band in Colorado to field a color guard. Individuals may join the Color Guard while they are learning their instrument and the tunes required for kilting, or if they just want to be an active member of the team, In addition to parades, color guard members help during other events to collect tips and sell band merchandise. We are currently reorganizing our Color Guard program, so please check back for more details.

Uniforms
You will be issued a band kilt once you have successfully mastered the set of tunes for kilting. You will be required to purchase personal uniform items (shirt, Glengarry, shoes, Inverness cape, etc.) that are not reissued.

Members sign for their equipment and are responsible for its upkeep and professional cleaning. Full replacement costs will be charged if any item is lost or damaged due to negligence.

Tickets for Highland games and events
Whenever possible, the band negotiates free or discounted rates for band members as part of our performance fees. This includes family members at most games and events (note: not all events provide the option to obtain free or discounted tickets).

Band member requirements

• Dues paid annually or in semi-annual installments (January and June).

• 50% attendance at all practices (attendance is taken at each practice).

• Participation at 50% of events (events other than military memorials are posted on the band calendar).

• Properly wear the uniform of the day at all events.

• Purchase personal uniform items.

• Pipers: purchase a practice chanter and band music book and eventually bagpipes.

• Drummers: purchase drum sticks and/or mallets.

Still interested? Just fill out the form on our contact page.