No time like the present to learn to play. To that end, Tunes of Glory prides itself on its highly successful student program, and is pleased to offer quality instruction in piping and drumming to interested individuals.
Group lessons are available, with classes typically beginning in the fall and spring of each year. Individual instruction is also offered, subject to availability. The goal of offering instruction is to help maintain the Band and to provide for its growth. The Band's expectation of students is to give to the Band at least one season as a playing member of the Band.
Students are expected to provide, at their own expense, in the case of a piping student, a practice chanter and a book, and in the case of a drumming student, practice pad and sticks/mallets. Please, do not purchase equipment or books until you have consulted your instructor to ensure that you purchase the proper equipment suitable for playing with the rest of the band. Your instructor will give you recommendations and point you to suitable locations to acquire this equipment.
After a time, student pipers may want to invest in a set of bagpipes; there are several manufacturers of pipes available and they are of varying quality. It is strongly advisable to talk to the instructor, the Pipe Major, and other pipers before choosing what is best for you, be it new or used. Drumming students will have access to drums provided by the Band.
After achieving proficiency with bagpipe rudiments on the practice chanter, the piping student will learn to play the bagpipe itself. The student can spend up to a year learning the basics of the bagpipe, including maintenance, tuning, breathing and tunes in the standard band repertoire.
Students must then pass an audition prior to becoming a playing member with the band.
A fee is typically charged per student, with each lesson lasting approx. 30-45 minutes, depending on the need and circumstances. All funds go towards expenses of the Band, purchasing equipment, uniforms, etc. and to provide for advanced instruction for qualified musicians. When a student becomes an active playing member, lesson fees are discontinued. However, ongoing private instruction is recommended for all members.
Lessons are normally held the same evening that the Band meets for practice, and usually before the main body of the Band arrives. Student lessons are typically from 6:00pm to 7:30pm on Wednesday evenings, prior to the band practice. Advanced students may be invited to participate in practice with the main band, at the discretion of the student's instructor and the Pipe Major/Drum Sergeant.
Students are strongly encouraged to participate in band activities and to be part of the band's Color Guard on parade. The Color Guard provides a great way for students to become involved prior to becoming playing members in the band.
For further information and availability, and to register for lessons, please contact the Band Business Manager.