Joining Sandia Peak Scottish Pipes and Drums
Come join us!
Sandia Peak Scottish Pipes and Drums is a band with a growth mindset, and we welcome anyone 18 years and older to come learn and play. Whether you are experienced, or a complete beginner, SPSPD is a welcoming community of musicians.
There are various instruments you can learn within a pipe band. Options include bagpipes, snare drums, tenor drums, and the bass drum. The ability to read music is helpful, but certainly not necessary. We are happy to teach you!
Lessons for beginner students are held Tuesdays from 6:00-6:30pm, with performance group practice from 6:30-8:30pm. Our practices are held at First Presbyterian Church, located at 215 Locust St. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87102. All members of the band are expected to arrive prepared, with music and musical instruments maintained and ready to play.
Prospective band members may wonder what it costs to join us. New piping students will be required to purchase a practice chanter, which is a recorder-like instrument that serves as the foundation of learning bagpipes (approximately $80-100). New drumming students will be required to purchase a drumming practice pad and sticks/mallets (approximately $70-90). In time, piping students will want to purchase bagpipes (approximately $1,200-1,500). Drummers will be provided with drums and harnesses. Performance group members that want to perform in SPSPD's kilt uniform will need to purchase their own (approximately $1,000). While these costs are significant, they will be spread over the course of one to two years.
Performance group members are also welcome to wear any kilts they may currently have. The motto of the Cameron Lochiel clan, "Let Us Unite" certainly applies to our group...we are happy to be a united performance band that incorporates any clan tartan!
We do expect any new member to come with a willingness to learn and accept feedback, and to be supportive and encouraging of our band members. We also expect members to support and encourage the piping and drumming community as a whole. Rudeness and elitism towards other musicians and groups will not be tolerated.
SPSPD has expectations for willingness to learn, working hard, and enjoying great fun together as a band. Bring your passion for Scottish music (or curiosity) and come join us!
