Pipe Band Handbook

Welcome to the St Andrew's College Pipe Band

St Andrew’s College has maintained a strong tradition of piping and drumming since the formation of its first Pipe Band in 1919. In 2019, we celebrated our Pipe Band Centenary. The Band is an integral part of daily life at the College, performing regularly at assemblies, Prizegiving, Open Days, Founders’ Day, sport fixtures and on many other special occasions. The Band is widely regarded as New Zealand’s premier college band.

Each year, true to the College’s commitment to community service, the Pipe Band performs at a wide range of community events. Members are frequently requested to play at Anzac parades, retirement villages, weddings, birthdays, funerals and other special occasions.

Importantly, the Band is a competing band. The Band competes in contests locally, nationally and internationally, with many titles to its name including the Juvenile World Champions in 2013 and placing in the top three on three other occasions (2007, 2018 and 2023). I believe that competition drives up standards and provides regular goals for students and tutors to strive together.

Former members of the St Andrew’s College Pipe Band can be found in many bands both in New Zealand and overseas. Current members are aware that pipe banding can become a lifelong hobby, and many former members who shared the common interest at the College form naturally enduring friendships.

I hope that your association with the St Andrew’s College Pipe Band is a very enjoyable and valued experience.

Richard Hawke
Pipe Band Director