The Army Pipes & Drums

Are you seeking unique opportunities? The Army's Pipes and Drums are played by soldiers from across the Army who have volunteered from their Regiments to take on the extra training giving them the opportunity to become world-class performers, taking part in high-profile events, including the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and even the Coronation of The King and The Queen Consort. Could this be you?

The recent graduation of 27 soldiers from the prestigious Army School of Bagpipe Music and Highland Drumming gives an idea of the unexpected things you can achieve in the military.

It doesn't matter if you’ve never picked up an instrument before, as the 22 week course covers everything from learning how to practice on chanter and drum pads, mastering the basic finger and stick movements on their practice instruments, as well as reading and writing music. But this course is not just about learning to play an instrument. Soldiers also learn how to march in a band, respond to the Drum Major’s commands, and form basic formations.

The recent graduates will now return to their regiments across the UK and have many opportunities presented to them. They will represent the UK around the world on international military tattoos and overseas defence engagement support tasks and perform at large-scale events.

And the opportunities don't stop there. Many qualified Pipers and Drummers have progressed to very senior positions. The current Sovereign’s Piper, WO1 Burns SCOTS, started piping in the Army on the Class 3 Piper course the students graduated from. With effort and dedication, students will have unique opportunities only available to military pipers and drummers.

You never know where your career in the Army might take you.