Glen Allen Pipes and Drums charmed evening shoppers at Cresta Shopping Centre with an array of music, mostly traditional Scottish and Irish tunes to promote the Linden Highland Gathering which was held at De La Salle Holy Cross College High School.
Band administrator Katie Duggan said they were at the mall “to give the pipe band exposure within the local community”.
Dressed in typical band uniforms consisting of: tartan kilt, shirt, tie, glengarry (cap), hose (socks) and brogues (dress shoes), the band impressed its audience.
“I was shocked when I heard the band play because we rarely see this at the mall, but I was very impressed and even took photos and videos,” said Chris Botha, a Cresta Mall shopper.
Thabang Klou another shopper said “I love this type of music, and we rarely hear it nowadays, so this was an amazing experience. I would like to hear this more often”.
Glen Allen Pipes and Drums was originally formed in 1968.
“It was first known as Invereef Pipes and Drums, this name was later changed to Krugersdorp Pipes and Drums due to the location of the band members. As the band members slowly moved out toward Johannesburg, it was decided to rename the band to Glen Allen pipes and Drums in 2005.”
According to Duggan, the close allegiance between the Glen Allen band and De La Salle school band ensures that they are constantly bringing new blood into the pipe band, fraternity with musicians and supporters.
“Once these pupils leave school, they have the necessary skills to play in senior bands anywhere in the country,” Duggan added.
The bands members are aged between 16 and 45.
“Many South African top rated pipers and drummers have either been tutored by the band, or have played with the band and have moved onto running and tutoring other bands,” commented Duggan
The band is run by pipe major, Craig Scheffel and leading tip, Michael Clack.
