Pipe Bands – competitive in nature. Pipe Bands – caring in nature.
The recent string of of earthquakes in Christchurch, New Zealand has left the city shaken and frail. The city is home to a large and vibrant pipe band community. I am fortunate enough to be a part of the Canterbury Caledonian Society Pipe Band.
Having spent almost 6 years in New Zealand, I have noticed a very competitive rivalry between the bands, a healthy and positive environment. However, it is evident that the bands are all very inter-connected and their love of the music unites them.
I was touched when a friend from Wellington contacted me to say that NZ’s bands were putting on a concert to help with the Earthquake relief, and then another phone call from Dunedin in the south with the same intention.
Emails have been coming in from Mexico, Canada, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Japan, Europe, Australia and the United States. Our community is truly a special thing, and very tight-knit. People have been reaching out offering money to replace instruments, offering their homes to get away from it all and sending their love and best wishes.
It is times like this that really make us appreciate how special the pipe band fraternity is. It is not just a hobby for us all, but a passion and lifestyle.
Long may this international community remain strong.
James Laughlin
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