Welcome to the Brevard Police & Fire Pipes & Drums and thank you for taking the time to read this informational sheet. The following information is provided for the benefit of those who are interested in becoming a member of the BPFPD. After reading the material below, if you still have questions or would like to get more information, please email us via email at bpfpipeband@gmail.com.

 

The Brevard Police & Fire Pipes & Drums is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the art and culture of bagpipe bands and to promoting the image of all First Responders. We are made up of active duty and retired members of Law Enforcement, Fire Service, Military & Civilians. Membership in the Band is voluntary.

 

Our core mission is to honor the memory of our fallen at line of duty death funerals. The Band participates all across the State of Florida. The Band performs in parades, funerals, graduations, memorial services, conferences, weddings, charitable events, and many other events throughout the year. The majority of the jobs we perform at are on our own time, voluntarily, a founding character of the Band’s members since its inception in 2009. 

Perspective members can choose to learn the Great Highland Bagpipes, or the Drums. The Band provides instruction for a $10.00 charge to members for both instruments. Practices are held every Monday in Rockledge, FL. The hours are between 5:00pm – 6:00pm. Perspective members receive their lessons in the beginning of the night and are then free to stay and watch the rest of practice or head home. 

Students of the Great Highland Bagpipe must purchase a practice chanter (approx. $50) and a Highland Bagpipe Tutor Book/CD, The green book (approx. $52). Drum students must purchase a set of sticks (approx. $20) and practice pad (approx. $25).  No other equipment is needed to start. The Band expects you make as many of the practices as you can. Because the majority of the members who join come from different shifts lessons are repeated  on a two week basis. Week 1 and 2 will be lesson 1, week 3 and 4 will be lesson 2, and so on. We realize that due to work schedules that you cannot always be at practice. Do your best to make it when your available, and the more time you spend at home practicing will accelerate your ability to learn the instruments. 

 

 

                                      FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do I have to be Irish or Scottish to join the Band?

NO! The Band is made up of very diverse members. All you have to do is dedicate yourself to practicing.

 

Do I have to have musical experience or have played an instrument?

NO! Our instructors have been teaching members with 0 experience since the Band was formed. Almost every member started from scratch, so there is no excuse why anyone cannot learn.

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Do I have to come to every practice?

You are expected to come to practice when you are available. If you choose not to come and then show up several weeks later, you will be expected to continue with the lessons from where the class is. It is not fair to the students who come regularly to have to revert back. 

 

How long does it take to learn the instrument?

The amount of time you put into learning either instrument will drastically reduce the time it takes to become proficient. With steady practice and a desire to learn, a student of the pipes can be up and running in about eight months to a year. The drums take slightly less time, however we have three types to choose from.

 

Do I have to attend every job the Band performs at?

No. Participation is voluntary & we understand if you’re working. We just require that you attend as many gigs as possible. 

 

Does the Band provide my equipment?

The Band will provide you with everything except for your Kilt, Glengarry, Shoes/Boots, Hoses & Spats

 

Does the Band provide my instrument?

The Band does provide drums for members who choose to play them. Members who decide to play the Great Highland Bagpipe will have to purchase their own instrument. The Band has many contacts to help you find the right set of pipes and will assist you when the time comes.