There’s a new band in Port Dover and they are making some ‘Highland bagpipe and drum’ noise.
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The North Shore Highlanders pipes and drums band, which currently has 33 members including 24 playing members, started up in January 2024.
“We are a Port Dover group,” said founder Ian McFadden, pipe major. “We’re based out of Port Dover, practicing in Port Dover, and this (events like the Dog’s Nest Fun Day near Port Dover) is what we put this together for.
“We are focusing on youth, and we want them to start getting involved, and understanding what the veterans are in our community, and that’s why we choose the Legion as a partner for this venture.”
McFadden, who was competitive band pipe major with the Paris Port Dover Pipe Band for 16 years, noted no North Shore Highlanders currently playing with the Paris Port Dover band. The Highlanders are a completely separate, independent entity.
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“We are truly a teaching band,” said McFadden. “We wanted a really fresh technical sound, and the only way to do that is to get the young people involved. Teach them from scratch, so they don’t show up with bad technique or bad habits.”
“I really put them to the test with the teaching part,” laughed drummer David Oliver.
“The Highlanders practice right outside my house, and it’s good to hear it all coming together,” said Norfolk Ward 6 Councilor Adam Veri at the Dog’s Nest Fun Day.
Several newer members are ‘still learning,’ said McFadden.
“By next summer they will definitely be out on parade with us.”
The Highlanders, who put on a striking performance at the recent Dog’s Nest Fun Day, were asked to lead the 2024 Canada Day parade in Port Dover, and to participate in the June 27th Port Dover Legion Decoration Day. They have been to socials and festivals. And they will be at the free-admission Simcoe Friendship Festival on August 4.
“That was a real honor,” McFadden said.
The Highlanders can be reached by email at [email protected]Facebook (North Shore Highlanders), and Instagram (@NorthShoreHighlanders).
“The content on there is absolutely incredible. Top notch, very, very professional,” McFadden concluded.
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