The Greater Midwest Pipe Band was established in 2013 having its first competitive season in 2014. Since its founding the band has striven to develop a strong competitive presence at the Grade II level. The band was founded under the intentions to develop a unit that was centrally located in the Midwestern United States. With many of its initial members coming from either Detroit or Chicago, it was decided that the band should be located somewhere in South Central, Michigan. Chance has it that Battle Creek, Michigan is nearly dead center between both metropolitan areas. We have been very fortunate to call Battle Creek home, and specifically the Music Center of South Central Michigan who have provided us with an incredible home since the end of 2022. We previously practiced at the Battle Creek Masonic Center and feel that the fine folks there, who provided us with a home for our first nine years, are our family. Currently the band has members from all across North America with representation from seven States and one Canadian Province. With our new approach to a high level competitive band, and the use of modern technology, we are able to staff our organization with players from all corners of North America.
An obvious focus for the band is competition. We regularly attend contests through the Midwestern U.S., as well as Ontario and other points on the North American Continent. Additionally, the band is dedicated to traveling to Scotland every two years to compete at the World Pipe Band Championships. The band first made this trip in 2016 and returned again in 2018. It is our intention to compete again in Scotland in 2024 after being unable during Covid, and spending the following years growing the organization.
The band is also focused on the growth of the Celtic arts. Through tuition and working with local bands in Michigan, Illinois and Wisconsin, the Greater Midwest Pipe Band is dedicated to fostering new talent and helping them to develop their skills as musicians. The band can help to find instruction for anyone that would be interested in learning bagpipes or drums. Please reach out if you are interested in learning more!
We are very proud to practice once a month at the Music Center of South Central Michigan in Battle Creek, MI. If you are ever in the area please feel free to stop by and say hello!
- Michigan