The Pipes and Drums of the Chicago Highlanders was established in 1921 and is the oldest continuous pipe and drum corps in the United States. The band is a member of the Midwest Pipe Band Association and competes at the grade four level. At full compliment, the band consists of 23 pipers and 10 drummers from various walks of professional life. In addition to parades and commercial events, the band performs in the annual Cantigny Park (Wheaton, Illinois) summer series.
The Chicago Highlanders strive to maintain the rich traditions of Scottish piping and drumming. Twice a month, the band employs the professional piping instruction of Adrian Melvin and professional drum instruction of Jim Sim. Marching skills are under the direction of Drum Major Jack Taylor.
The band meets every Thursday at Bethel Lutheran Church in Palatine from 7 pm to 10 pm, with the first half hour dedicated to student instruction for both pipes and drums. In the tradition of pipe bands across the world, and to pass on the craft to future generations, lessons are free to all interested and conscientious persons, regardless of age or skill level, who aspire to join the band. The rest of the time is dedicated to band practice, either in individual groups or as a single unit.
The Chicago Highlanders are ava
ilable for hire. We have many years of experience performing at a wide variety of venues including parades, concerts, weddings, and funerals. We welcome the opportunity to turn your event into a memorable occasion. To hire the band, or to arrange for a solo piper or any combination of pipers and drummers to play for you, please contact our band manager.