Baton Rouge Caledonian Pipes and Drums – The Caledonian Society of Baton Rouge

The Baton Rouge Caledonian Pipes and Drums was established in 1976 by the Caledonian Society of Baton Rouge with the goal to promote and preserve the unique and exciting culture of Scotland. The powerful and moving sounds of the pipes and drums and the colorful weave of tartan kilts continue to be the most highly recognizable symbols of this ancient and proud tradition.

This award-winning marching band of bagpipers and drummers is respected on the national level as a competition band at the grade 5 level and is proud to be a member of the Eastern United States Pipe Band Association.

The band offers FREE BAGPIPE AND SCOTTISH DRUM LESSONS weekly on Thursday nights at 6:30 PM at First Presbyterian Church (763 North Blvd. Baton Rouge, 70802). If you are not a musician but love the bagpipes, come join our color guard and enjoy marching with us. If interested, contact pipe major Stan Masinter.

THE BAND IS AVAILABLE FOR BOOKING YOUR SPECIAL OCCASION. The band is in high demand and averages approximately forty performances annually. Events have included memorials, funerals, weddings, church services, parades, festivals, charity fund raisers, private events and competitions. Over the years the band has been awarded many honors, and it has been officially recognized by government, military, law enforcement, firefighters and civic organizations.

For more information for lessons or bookings contact Pipe Major Stan Masinter at (225) 266-3783 or livewell@bellsouth.net

BAND MARCHES IN A RECORD-BREAKING NUMBER OF 2022 MARDI GRAS PARADES, AS WELL AS BATON ROUGE’S ROLLICKING ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE!

LATEST HONOR FOR THE BAND:

EUSPBA has officially regraded our lead stick, Chris Pierce, moving him from Grade 3 up to Grade 2. Congratulations, Chris, we are extremely lucky to have you as a member of our band. You are the glue that holds the drum section together, and your knowledge and patience are invaluable.
Chris Pierce, left
Chris began drumming in the 4th grade and continued into high school. He was named 1st Chair in the Louisiana All-State Band in 1976 while attending Belaire High School in Baton Rouge.

After high school, he played with the Louisiana State University Tiger Marching Band, 1977-1980, and when he has the opportunity, Chris continues to play with the LSU Tiger Alumni Band in their annual halftime shows.

In 2010, Chris visited Scotland during Hogmanay and was enamored with all of the pipe bands at the various local events. As soon as he returned home, he joined the Baton Rouge Caledonian Pipes and Drums.

When asked why he has stuck with it for the past decade, he said he enjoys the challenge of the Scottish pipe band style of drumming. But more importantly, he said, he enjoys the camaraderie with band members and traveling to band competitions in places like Glasgow, Chicago, St. Paul, etc. with both the Baton Rouge Caledonian Pipes and Drums and the Turlach Ur Pipe Band.

Congratulations again, Chris, and Slàinte!

As things are returning to normal, you will see updates about the Band’s activities and classes, on the Caledonian Events Page.