We all know that competition drive and musical inventiveness are keys to the success of most pipe bands. But what about behind the scenes? How should a great pipe band operate to make ends meet, to subsidize travel, to create a great brand unto itself? On a question to provide pipes|drums subscribers with answers and useful information, we have approached several of the world’s best band managers for their tips and secrets. We start our series with Rob MacNeil, manager, special projects with the Simon Fraser University Pipe Band, who reveals techniques and shares advice on extending the value of the pipe band brand to raise funds, be an essential part of the community and plan for the future.
A wide-ranging, exclusive conversation with one of the piping world’s most well-regarded composers and performers. In this four-part interview for subscribers to pipes|drums, Mark Saul discusses his experiences with the legendary Victoria Police Pipe Band, his disappointments and disenchantment with the musical limitations of pipe bands, and his search for enlightenment and wider horizons in music overall. Having just released his third collection of music, Mark Saul’s piping life has taken him around the world and, with a typically Australian attitude, is never content with the status quo. In this first instalment, we discuss Mark Saul’s origins as a piper, his development and inspirations as a composer, and his instinctive desire to strive for more.