Open House
If you missed our Open House, you can still stop by and speak with us about joining the Albany Police Pipes and Drums, or taking lessons.
We practice every Thursday at the Albany Elks Lodge on South Allen Street in Albany.
Go to our Contact page if you would like to get a hold of us.
Bagpipe Lessons -- Becoming a Bagpiper
If you are already on the Pipes, come and talk to us! All existing players are welcome to audition. We are a Grade 5 band consisting of active and retired police officers, and civilians. We meet on Thursday evenings at 7:00pm at the Albany Elks, South Allen St, Albany.
We currently give lessons on Thursday evenings at the Albany Elks, South Allen St, Albany. If you are interested in bagpipe lessons, please E-mail the Band President, Jim Shaughnessy, and he will get back to you with details on getting started in our student program. Thanks for thinking of us!
Snare Drum Lessons -- Becoming a Celtic Snare Drummer
At present, the Albany Police Pipes &Drums does not train anyone who does not have any prior percussion experience, but we will be happy to recommend a drumming instructor for those just starting out. Experienced percussionists (snare drummers in particular) are welcome to attend and observe rehearsals.
Tenor Drum Lessons -- Becoming a Flourishing Tenor Drummer
Flourishing tenor drumming provides much of the visual beauty visible in a marching bagpipe and drum band. Learning the routines proper to the standard scores takes time, skill and practice. Tenor drumming lessons run on primarily the same rolling Spring and Fall schedule as do the bagpipes. The skills needed for tenors differ from the Celtic snare work done and so practices are conducted separately from snare drummers.
What Next? -- When do I get my kilt?
Let it be known that one should allow him or herself approximately 18 months to two years before she/he receives the kilt and uniform and are deemed prepared to begin performing with the Albany Police Pipes & Drums.
If you've got the drive and the time, and can provide your own bagpipes--the band will provide most of the other necessary uniform items. Come and find out what we are all about. Civilian members are welcome.
First Steps ...
Congratulations for taking your first step by reading this. Now comes the time to make contact. E-mail the Band President, Jim Shaughnessy, and he will contact you promptly.