FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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Do we teach beginners and learners?
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Yes, we do. At TMPD we have developed a graduated program of instruction particularly for learner
pipers. It "starts off easy" and moves in a systematic and organised manner from easy tunes to simple
marches and then on to more progressive music.
TEHACHAPI MOUNTAIN PIPES & DRUMS
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Yes, Absolutely yes!
No. We do not hold or use auditions as a per-requisite for playing with the Band. Auditions can be quite
intimidating, and thus, are quite contrary to our practice of warmly welcoming pipers and drummers of all
and every level of age, ability and experience.
Eventually, yes. It takes about a year of practice to progress to playing pipes competently. At this time
you will need a set of Bagpipes. As is usual with most Pipe bands, Pipers are expected to provide their
own set of bagpipes. These do not have to be expensive as cheaper and / or used sets are sometimes
available. New Bagpipes can cost from $1100 and up.
The first hour of practice is spent with individual and small group tutoring at the table on the bagpipe
practice chanter, or drum pad, depending on the interest of the learner. The second hour is reserved for
Pipe band practice on Practice Chanters. The third hour is on the "pipes." Our tunes are usually played
either standing in a circle or on the march in our hall. Learners may use the third period to practice on
their own, or may wish to join in with the full band for marching tuition.
Do I need to have my own pipes?
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What is a typical practice/rehersal like?
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The band meets for rehearsal at the Community Congregational Church. It is located at 100 South Green
Street on the corner of E and Green Street in Tehachapi, California. The Practice runs from 6:00 pm to
9:00 pm on Thursday evenings, year round.
Where do you meet and when?
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A Pipe Band comprises Bagpipers, Bass Drummer, Side (or Snare) Drummers and Tenor Drummers. You
can choose to learn any of these instruments.
What can I play in the band?
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Learners are required to provide either their own practice chanter, or drum sticks and practice pad. We
can lend these items for the first few practices until you are able to purchase your own. The Band can
supply these items at moderate cost if needed (under $100). This is all that is needed for the first year,
after which learners should be able to play with the band.
Yes, we have had Pipe Band members from a wide variety of ethnic backgrounds, and of all ages. In fact,
only a minority of current TMPD members are Scottish! We have both male and female members ranging
in a wide variety of nationalities. German, Jewish, Puerto Rican, Japanese, American, etc.
No. TMPD was set up as a street band, to teach the basics of Piping and Drumming to learners, and to
perform at local parades and events. Competition Piping and Drumming requires standards of technical
excellence, discipline and dedication (time) with which most of our members are not compatible. We
probably have more fun, though!
Do we play in competitions?
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Unlike most Pipe bands, we do not wear a "standard" tartan. Band Members are free to wear their own
tartan. The remainder of our uniforms are matched. This produces, in our opinion, a more colourful
spectacle when we play as a Band.
What tartan does the band wear?
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Since the Tehachapi Mountain Pipe & Drums band is a fairly new Band, we do not yet have the money to
supply full uniforms to members. Some uniform items are paid for by the band. But eventually you will
need to purchase a kilt, sox, shoes, and a sporran.
[To fully outfit a Piper or Drummer with a brand new basic uniform costs approximately $1500.]
Yes. TMPD plays in many parades, and at functions and events in the Tehachapi, Bakersfield, and
Antelope Valley areas. We can expect to perform at approximately 15 of these events each year. We are
paid, as a Band, for some of our appearances, and the money earned is used for Band expenses, such
as Pipe reeds and Drum skins, etc.
Monthly dues are $20 to help defray costs.
TMPD supplies, on loan to all members, a tuition manual complete with our repertoire of music.
What about money? What does it all cost?
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No. The Pipe Band supplies drums, along with slings, on a loan basis.
Do I need to have my own drum?
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A "street band" is one which exists to play at local parades and events; which provide the income for
running the band. We aim to promote the music and culture of Scotland with its distinctive presentation in
the form of a Pipe Band. We also believe that it is important to pass on to others the basics of both Piping
and Drumming.