Join Up!

We always welcome new members.You do not have to join the Canadian Forces to play with the 48th Highlanders of Canada Pipes and Drums. We do encourage our members to consider this option which allows them the participate in all military activities and training offered by the Canadian Forces.

If you are looking for a serious-minded and busy pipe band, then you'll feel at home with us.

Practices

Practices are held Tuesdays from 1930 hrs to 2200 hrs at Moss Park Armoury, at the corner of Queen Street and Jarvis Street in downtown Toronto.

If you are interested in attending, please contact us.

Learn to Play

The 48th Highlanders Pipes and Drums is also committed to teaching serious beginners on pipes or drums. All beginners are encouraged to seek out private lessons. Several members of the pipe band teach both bagpipes and drums privately and welcome committed students. Contact Pipe Major Iain Lang for more information.

General Information about Joining the Canadian Forces Reserves

Pipers and drummers interested in becoming a member of the Canadian Forces Primary Reserves as a member of the 48th Highlanders of Canada Pipes and Drums must demonstrate thie musical abilities to the Pipe Major and should contact the Pipe Major.

It is important to understand that local Canadian Forces Recruiting Centres will not open a file for an applicant until the Pipe Major provides documentation authorizing the enrolment. Normally you will be asked to sit in with the Pipe band for a period of time to determine if you can perform at the required level and can adjust to the rigours of duty expected of a member of a Canadian Forces Primary Reserve Pipe Band. If the Pipe Major determines that you are are suitable and a position is available, then the applicant will be asked to perform a live audition.

Live Auditions

Live auditions take place in the band room. During a live audition, the applicant will be required to:

1. Play prepared pieces of the applicants choice (all styles recommended).
2. Play sight reading material; (in all styles).
3. Play with the full band or a smaller ensemble.
4. Participate in an interview.

You should be prepared to supply a copy of the prepared music that you intends to play. The prepared music is to be be played from memory. Sight reading and band music will be supplied by the Pipe Major.

Benefits of Joining the Reserves

Some of the benefits you will recieve from becoming a piper/drummer in the Canadian Forces Reserves are:

1. Competitive Wages and Promotions.
2. Vacations
3. Allowances
4. Educational Reimbursement
5. Uniforms
6. Medical and Dental Care
7. Parental Leave
8. Personnel Support
9. Sports and Fitness

For more detailed and up to date information see the Canadian Forces Recruiting Website.

This web site is not an official Canadian Forces Web site and is not sponsored by the 48th Highlanders of Canada. This site was developed without the use of public funds, and does not necessarily represent the views or policies of the Government of Canada, The Department of National Defence, or the 48th Highlanders of Canada. For more information on the Department of National Defence, go to www.dnd.ca.

Content, Design, and Programming © 1996 by Iain Lang. All rights reserved worldwide.