Flint Scottish Pipe Band is diverse

The Flint Scottish Pipe Band was begun in 1916 by Scottish immigrants who wanted to carry on their musical traditions. Over the years it has evolved into a multigenerational, multiethnic group performing and competing across the Midwest.

There are 28 members,18 pipers and 10 drummers, explained band Secretary Bill Murray. The group ranges in age from teens to senior citizens. Band members come from all areas of the community. Students, professors, lawyers, factory workers, laborers and a chiropractor are all among the current membership.

Family tradition is a key value in the band. "We see a lot of parent-child and sibling relationships," said Murray, whose own father and brother were band members.

The band has expanded beyond Scottish-Americans to anyone interested in piping. Murray noted a Hungarian drum major active from the 1950s to the 1970s as well as Italian and Polish members.

Summer is their busiest time, Murray said. The band performs at local events competitions and parades across Oakland, Genesee and Saginaw counties. The band played for Flint parades in the past, including one notable parade captured by Michael Moore in Roger and Me.

"If you look closely you can see my dad," Murray laughed.

Events typically on the band's summer schedule include the Munger Potato Festival and the Cass City Freedom Festival. Competitions include the Alma Highland Festival, Heartland International Tattoo and the St. Andrew's Games in Livonia.

In 2009 the Flint Scottish Bagpipe Band was Grade Five Midwest Champion.

Individual pipers play for funerals, weddings and special occasions. The most commonly requested tune, Murray said, is Amazing Grace.

The band provides music lessons for those interested in learning piping and drumming. Group instruction in the drum section is free. Individual lessons in piping are available for a nominal fee.

"My father paid for my brother's and my lessons once a month by bringing in a bottle of whiskey," Murray said.

The band rehearses every first and third Thursday of the month at First Presbyterian Church of Flint, and every second, fourth and fifth Thursday at Fraternal Order of the Eagles on Dort Highway. Rehearsals are open to the public unless the group is preparing for a competition.

Visit www.flintscottishpipeband.org for more information.