If you hang around the Port Dover Legion during one of our practices, you’ll quickly notice the lighthearted “war” between the piping section and the drum corps. Pipers like to think they’re the stars of the show because they carry the melody, while the drummers are convinced the band would literally fall apart without their steady beat. It’s a classic rivalry that has existed as long as bagpipes have had drums to keep them company.
In reality, it’s all about balance. The pipers spend hours perfecting their fingerwork and tuning their drones to the humidity of the Lake Erie air, while the drummers are busy lugging heavy gear and practicing intricate “rudiments” to make sure their rolls are buttery smooth. We might tease each other about who has the harder job, but the magic only happens when the two sides lock in together.
At the end of the day, we’re one big family. Whether we’re arguing over the tempo of a 4/4 march or sharing a laugh at the local pub after a gig, the bond between the pipes and drums is what keeps the North Shore Highlanders strong. We’re just a group of friends in Port Dover who love making a lot of noise—and doing it as a team.
Want to see the North Shore Highlanders Pipe & Drum Band, Port Dover, Ontario in action?
Catch our next performance in the heart of Norfolk County!