(HD video) Canadian Forces concert raises more than $2k for Soldier On
A concert by the Canadian Forces Pipes & Drums staged in Edmonton in November has raised more than $2,000 for “Soldier On,” a charity that assists ill and injured soldiers and their families.
Led by Pipe-Major Matt MacIsaac, a holder of the Argyllshire Gathering Silver Medal, the event brought together 17 pipers and drummers in the Regular Forces from across Canada, each of whom received music in September. The players met for a week of rehearsals, culminating in a two-hour concert at the Myer Horowitz Theatre at the University of Alberta on November 25th. Proceeds from the event went to Soldier On.
The branch of the Canadian Forces has undergone significant cutbacks in the area of music, and has included severe reductions to the piping and drumming program. MacIsaac joined the military several years ago, and has played a role in bringing together players from various Canadian regiments, with a goal of having a full-time Canadian Forces Pipes & Drums band.
The concert was named “Hail to My Country,” and featured a performance of the ground and first variation of the piobaireachd by C.S. Thomason of the same name.
In addition to the pipe band, the Strathcona Dancers and the Royal Canadian Artillery Band also performed.
From the short video I watched, it sounded great. Congratulations to all that were involved. If feasible are there any plans on releasing a DVD/CD? This might be a nice idea to raise additional funds for Soldier On.””
Raising the money for such a deserving and noble cause is fantastic but i fear that advertising it may not be so beneficial. Don’t get me wrong, I’m a huge supporter of our Military and our Pipe Bands but in these days of financial restraint, taxpayers may inquire about how much money and resources were used to transport 17 pipers from all across Canada to put this show on just to raise $2000.
Real touching piece. Great job Matt.
A very nice piece of music, played with great emotion…. Would love to learn this with the band – Can [you] contact Matt to forward the music? and harmonies if available..