Considered to be the oldest continously active pipe band in the United States, the Holyoke Caledonian Pipe band continues to be a viable part of the community of western Massachusetts.
The pipe band was organized in 1909 by a group of emigrant Scotts associated with the Holyoke Caledonian Benefit Club. Our first Pipe Major, Robert Ramsay served in that Capacity from 1910 to 1930, when he was succeeded by pipe band major Wilson Mathieson. P.M Major Mathieson, a noted piping instructor, served the pipe band faithfully for the next 45 years until his retirement in 1975
The pipe band was organized in 1909 by a group of emigrant Scotts associated with the Holyoke Caledonian Benefit Club. Our first Pipe Major, Robert Ramsay served in that Capacity from 1910 to 1930, when he was succeeded by pipe band major Wilson Mathieson. P.M Major Mathieson, a noted piping instructor, served the pipe band faithfully for the next 45 years until his retirement in 1975
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The pipe band made its first appearance in uninform in Holyoke's 1910 Fourth of July parade. The uniforms, appropriately enough, were the Ramsay Tartan. This Tartan was worn until 1935 when it was replaced by the Gordon Tartan which was woven locally at the Livingston Worsted Mills in Holyoke. In 1962, the Holyoke Caledonian Pipe Band was completely re-outfitted in full Highland dress with kilts and plaids of the Royal Stewart Tartan. This continues to be the tartan worn by the present day pipe band.
Throughout the years, the membership has been primarily comprised of individuals of Scottish descent. Current membership rosters continue to reflect a great predominance of Scots-Americans, although this is not a requirement for membership. The Holyoke Caledonian Pipe band cordially welcomes anyone living in western Massachusetts and beyond who has a genuine interest in piping and drumming. |
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Since the pipe band first appeared in 1910, it has delighted generation after generation of New England inhabitants with stirring strains of the "great Highland bagpipe". Your support will enable us to maintain our tradition of excellence, and to provide continuing service to our community of Western Massachusetts.
Current Activities
Among the area events in which the Holyoke Caledonian Pipe Band participates are the Holyoke
Saint Patrick's Day Parade and Colleen Contest, the Holyoke Memorial Day Parade, the Chesterfield Fourth of July Parade and many other civic and church functions. In addition, the pipe band participates in community anniversary parades and other celebrations throughout Western Massachusetts and New England.
Please contact the Holyoke Caledonian Pipe Band if you would like our members to perform at your event. It has the capability of responding with a single piper and/or drummer up to and including the entire pipe band in full Highland dress.
In addition to performing, the band is self-perpetuating in that it instructs women and men from the area in the art of Highland piping and drumming. This is a continuing effort that has produced many fine musicians throughout the years.
Saint Patrick's Day Parade and Colleen Contest, the Holyoke Memorial Day Parade, the Chesterfield Fourth of July Parade and many other civic and church functions. In addition, the pipe band participates in community anniversary parades and other celebrations throughout Western Massachusetts and New England.
Please contact the Holyoke Caledonian Pipe Band if you would like our members to perform at your event. It has the capability of responding with a single piper and/or drummer up to and including the entire pipe band in full Highland dress.
In addition to performing, the band is self-perpetuating in that it instructs women and men from the area in the art of Highland piping and drumming. This is a continuing effort that has produced many fine musicians throughout the years.