Every pipe band has a “Pipe Major” who leads the pipers, but the “Lead Drummer” (or Drum Sergeant) is just as important. They are responsible for writing the drum “scores” that accompany the bagpipe melodies. Because bagpipes only play nine notes, the drums provide the complexity and “flavor” that makes the music interesting.
Our Lead Drummer in the North Shore Highlanders has to be both a musician and a teacher. They lead the drum corps through hours of practice, ensuring that every snare, tenor, and bass drummer is perfectly synchronized. In Port Dover, we’re lucky to have talented leaders who know how to push the band to be better while still keeping things fun and casual.
The “Lead Tip” (another name for the lead snare drummer) also acts as the band’s timekeeper. They use a special set of rolls and beats to signal the start of a tune, helping the pipers know exactly when to “strike in.” It’s a high-pressure job, but seeing the drum corps nail a difficult set in the middle of Port Dover makes all the hard work worth it.
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!