Our Band
The Barossa & District Pipe Band is a Scottish Pipe Band based in the Barossa Valley of South Australia.
The band was established in February 2012 by Pipe Major, Peter Whitehead. The band was started from scratch with beginners and learners coming from surrounding areas. From an initial group of 6 interested people the band has grown over the years to approximately 20 members at its strongest. The band is currently led by Pipe Major, Alistair MacCallum who took over the role of Pipe Major in October 2022 after the resignation of Peter Whitehead.
Some milestones have been:
- February 2012 Information meeting and initial recruiting
- September 2012 sufficient interest to incorporate the group and seek funding
- November 2013 1st public appearance at the Eudunda show.
- April 2015 (ANZAC Day) the band’s first appearance in uniform
- The establishment of “Winter Flame” in June 2022. A parade of playing and marching Pipe Bands with people carrying flaming torches through the main street of Tanunda. This was initially planned to commemorate the tenth anniversary of the band and has now become an annual event which is attended by multiple bands, Highland Dancers, Highland Strong Women and Men and large crowds of cheering and appreciative spectators and participants.
- The band currently is very busy performing at many and varied events and functions throughout South Australia.
If you have an event that you think would be enhanced by having a Pipe Band attend, and let’s face it, what event wouldn’t. Please contact us by email, phone or by clicking here.
The band is most definitely a teaching band and provides tuition for bagpipes, snare drum, and tenor & bass drum, for anyone who would like to learn an instrument. Enquiries are most welcome.
Our Rhythm & Beat
A big thank you to the Barossa Co-op for choosing Barossa & District Pipe Band as one of the participants and potential recipient of much needed funding to support our band. We would love the general public to get behind the band by choosing us as your favourite community group to support!!! Our eligibility period starts from 1st to 17th of October, so if you're shopping at Barossa Fresh during that time, please scan the QR code for the Barossa & District Pipe Band. ... See MoreSee Less
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This time last year at the Royal Adelaide Show!! ... See MoreSee Less
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🎵 5 Fun Facts You Might Not Know About a Pipe Band 🎵
(Yes, we do know we're loud… and proud of it! 😎)
1️⃣ We don’t start on bagpipes!
New pipers begin on a “practice chanter” – basically a quiet mini pipe that lets us learn our notes and embellishments without terrifying the neighbours.
2️⃣ Drummers aren’t just keeping time.
Snare, tenor, and bass drummers are each doing something completely different – together. It’s like musical multitasking with sticks, flourishes, and flair! 💥🥁
3️⃣ Our uniforms are basically wearable history.
Tartan kilts, hose flashes, sporrans… each piece has tradition behind it. Yes, even that funny thing hanging from the waist has a purpose.
4️⃣ We tune… a LOT.
Before every performance, there’s a sacred ritual of tuning. Expect lots of squeaky sounds, confused looks, and a “just a little bit more” from the Pipe Major.
5️⃣ We’re one big family.
From kids learning their first notes to veterans who’ve played for decades – community pipe bands like ours thrive on camaraderie, laughter, and shared love for the music. ❤️
If you'd like to know more, or would like to join as a beginner or experienced piper or drummer, contact us here or email us at info@barossapipeband.com.au ... See MoreSee Less
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Yes I love it
The band braved the chilly Barossa air this morning starting around 7.30am. We were playing to cheer on and encourage all the other brave souls who were running in the Barossa Marathon. At least the sun was shining on us all!! ... See MoreSee Less
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Very chilly morning for you all