Pipe major
The pipe major is the leader of the piper in a pipes & drums band . He marches in the formation at the front right and therefore gives his commands “by the right” to distinguish himself from the drum major , who marches in front in the middle and commands “by the center” .
The Pipe Major is responsible for training the pipers, for learning and practicing the new pieces with the Practice Chanter , the practice flute for the bagpipe . He is also responsible for the instructions for maintaining the bagpipes and for their correct tuning before playing. He wears the duty sash, the red sash and, as a badge of rank, four angles , the large piping emblem with oak leaves and the Queens Crown on the right sleeve.
He has a prominent position within his unit: in most cases he is the most experienced and best piper and thus the highest musical authority. He is also responsible for maintaining discipline and upholding traditions. He is usually assisted by a pipe sergeant and represented by him in his absence.
literature
- RW Lerwick: The Pipe Major's Handbook: A Complete Operator's Manual for the Scottish Pipe Band . 1980
- Paul E. Olsen, Iain D. McGibbon, Michael W. Stewart, James A. Harrington, Kieran G. Boyle: Drill Manual for Pipes and Drums . Regimental Drum Major Association, 2007 ( online version )
Web links
- The Pipe Major , Swiss Highland Pipers