These pipers are keeping Canadian tradition alive

In celebration of International Bagpipe Day, Kelowna10 visited one of the oldest pipe bands in the Interior.

The Kelowna Pipe Band Society began in the late 1920s with a small group of playing members, and has grown to a contingent of nearly 30 today.

“The band is 100 years old,” pipe major Chad Goodman told Kelowna10. “We are celebrating on May 6, having a big competition and parade in downtown Kelowna.”

The music of the bagpipes is proudly engrained in Canadian history, playing ceremonial events, or alongside the military during times of war.

“We still today have a role in the military,” Goodman said. “It's just kind of rich in tradition.”

Though the band is now a century old, it is still trying to reach younger members.

The skill curve for the instrument may be difficult, but Goodman said they are more than willing to teach.

“We're continually trying to figure out ways to invite the young people to come and learn,” he explained. “Our doors are always open to teach new people. We have teachers that are teaching students all the time, they just have to reach out to the band, and we will set them up.”