White Spot Youth Pipe Band
Join us!
We are looking for youth ages 8 - 18 years of age for drumming, piping, and highland dancing. No experience necessary. Contact us or come on out and watch us at an upcoming event.
Originally formed by Don Bellamy as the Optimist Junior Pipe Band, the name was changed in 1963 to reflect the generous sponsorship and patronage of Nat Bailey and his White Spot Restaurants. For almost 50 years the organization has provided instruction and encouragement to more than 500 young people. The band currently has a membership of about 65 youth between the ages of 8-18 at three different levels; beginner chanter & drum-pad, Grade 5 junior Pipe Band and Grade 4 senior Pipe Band, as well as highland dancers. Some of the current instructors are former students.
In addition to being dedicated to the musical development of youth, the White Spot Pipe Band has always emphasized a commitment to community, personal growth and development, and the preservation of Scottish heritage. In order to underscore community responsibility, the band performs in numerous local events such as Canada Day, Remembrance Day, Sunshine Foundation for kids, and the Cops for Cancer relay. Over the years the band has traveled extensively throughout North America making several feature appearances at the Calgary Stampede and Parade and performing at three World Expositions; Expo ‘62 in Seattle, Expo ’67 in Montreal and Expo ‘86 in Vancouver. White Spot was privileged to be the first pipe band to play at the ‘Arizona’ Memorial in Hawaii.
The organization promotes both team building and individual growth, urging children to compete in both individual and in band competitions. For the past four years the White Spot Pipe Band has earned the title of Grade 4, Pacific Northwest Pipe Band Champions. The Band has produced its first CD which is a proud culmination of those achievements and the dedication of the students, instructors and families. Later this year, proudly wearing the BC Centennial tartan, the Band will travel to Scotland to compete in the World Pipe Band Championships for the very first time in its history.