Many people living in and around the Newton Aycliffe area will be aware that the local pipe band has been in existence for many years.
As with any group, members come and go and the reason that many groups survive is because the numbers that join generally match the numbers that leave, but this does fluctuate with groups having high and low numbers from time to time. The pipe band has managed to survive over the years because they always had a policy of encouraging young people into the band to learn to play the bagpipes and drums, as well as attracting experienced players.
Recently, the number of players within the pipe band has decreased and the band is going through a transitional phase as it rebuilds with a new Pipe Major and new band committee members. We are currently looking to recruit pipers and drummers of all abilities and tuition is available for those that want to learn, either from scratch or who have limited experience. In particular, we are looking for the more experienced pipers and drummers in the area to come along and help to keep the band performing. It really is a rewarding hobby and opens up opportunities for travel and to meet people in places that you may never have thought you would visit.
The band rehearses on Wednesday evenings from 7pm to 9pm and on Sunday afternoons from 2pm to 5pm at the Army Reserve Centre in Greenwell Road, near the town centre, opposite the Phoenix Club. If you would like to hear more about the band or would like to talk to someone about becoming a member, please contact us via our website, Facebook page or alternatively, email Catrina Dulston on catrina.dulston@hotmail.co.uk to discuss.
