They started something

I’ve posted before about the new medley performances from the Toronto Police Pipe Band that has started such a dialogue in the piping world. They came on with their medley in 2008 and a different one in 2009, both of which were completely different from anything the piping world has ever seen. One of the big differences is that they don’t start with the usual three pace rolls and “marchpipe” (marching hornpipe). This doesn’t break any rules for medley competitions in the US or Canada, (Scotland is a different story, where it’s specifically stated that the medley must start with three-pace rolls), but it’s certainly not what is expected in a band contest, and it’s “just not how things are done.”

I can’t really think of a worse reason to keep doing things than traditions like that, so I applaud the innovation. And I think they’ve started something, because this year I’ve seen several bands following this idea, throwing out the rolls and  starting their performance before they start marching into the circle. Two that come to mind are the grade 2 City of Regina Pipe Band from Regina, Saskatchewan, and the Grade 3 MacMillan Pipe Band from Rockville, MD. Any others that you’re aware of?

I like to see things change. I’m glad to see things shift away from “the way they’ve always been,” especially if there’s rule to prevent it, so good on you for breaking from the norm. Keep it up, and I’ll predict that in five years this will be the norm and the three pace rolls to start the medley will be much rarer.