Pipe Band marks musical milestones

MEMBERS of the Federation University Pipe Band are celebrating decades of service and participation in the Pipe Bands Australia movement.

Neil MacDonald, Robert Kerr, Ian Ives and Sue Brant have been playing for 50 years, while Leah Thevenet, Nathan Keane, Frank Gillett, Tim Bodey and Stephen Matthews marked a quarter of a century.

Ms Brant began learning the bagpipes in 1970. With a sister and uncle in the movement, she decided she’d attend Ballarat Ladies’ Pipe Band practices and has been loyal to that group ever since.

“The lady that started that band was a member of the Australian Ladies’ Pipe Band. The Ballarat Band was a top, grade two pipe band. They were very good,” she said.

“In 1984, we amalgamated with Ballarat Highland Band, the men’s band. In 1993, we again amalgamated with Ballarat Scottish Band to get one strong band in Ballarat; our band now.”

As one of two female pipers currently in the FedUni group, Ms Brant said it’s an instrument that requires determination.

She loves the social nature of the “teaching band” which has always had a strong, “close-knit,” consistent core of people, and enjoys the adventures the ensemble gets to experience together.

“We’ve played at some weird and wonderful events over the years, like the Andre Rieu concert at Marvel Stadium, and at the soccer when Celtic Football Club played,” Ms Brant said.

A fellow piper of at least 50 years, Mr MacDonald is the son of a highland musician and now has grandchildren playing.

His pipes and drums history differs, spanning varying ensembles.

“I’ve played with other bands in the district, and a few of us have done that, but Sue’s always been dedicated to this band for all of her great service,” he said. “50 years… It’s unbelievable.”

The nine awards recipients were acknowledged at the Federation University Pipe Band Annual General Meeting last Sunday at their band room in Brown Hill.