Pipe band has a busy term ahead
In September they will take part in the Jhb Military Tatoo
THE second term was quite busy for Kempton Park Pipe Band.
It kicked off with a bang at the annual Allen Park fête on May 14. This occasion has been opened by a parade comprising of the pipe band leading the parade with children of a few schools and elderly residents taking part.
This parade is one of the highlights of the fête and enjoyed by all. The band also entertains the frail elderly in the frail care centre.
During the course of the term there were various other events, which included the Delville Wood 100th memorial in Tshwane. The memorial was co-hosted by The SA Legion and The Tshwane Metro Municipal Council’s Memorial Committee.
The MC was Major Tim Lane of the Pretoria Highlanders. The SA Military Health Services Band played at the memorial and, as a member of the SAMHSB, the local band’s pipe major, Reg Simpson, played the pipes. He played the lament Flowers of the Forrest.
The Battle of Delville Wood took place during the First World War in 1916. The 1st South African Infantry Brigade made its Western Front debut as part of the 9th (Scottish) Division and captured Delville Wood on July 15.
In the days between July 15 and 19 the total casualty rate was at 74 percent of those who had gone into action. By the end of July the South African Scottish suffered 868 casualties.
The third term is looking to be even more hectic than the second. On July 16 the band socialed at St Benedict’s Gathering. On the 23rd, as part of its civic duty, they played a few tunes at a Bonaero Park community meeting. The 30th found them enjoying the day at the Benoni High Gathering.
But its during September that they will be going “bos”.
The Johannesburg Military Tatoo is running from the 7th to the 10th the Apartheid Museum. This means that August is crunch time for everyone participating in the event. Hours of practice to get every note perfect.
Kempton Park Pipe Band is a family of pipers and drummers and loves to pass on what they have learned. Should you wish to join, call Simpson on 082-873-5531.
