Josh Hogg only performs the great tunes
Recently appointed president of Pipe Bands' Association of South Africa speaks of his love of the bagpipes.
At 12 years old, along with forging new friendships and discovering the great outdoors, Josh Hogg also found himself captivated by the sound of bagpipes – an intrigue he credits to the instrument’s immediate, unmistakable presence.
Learning to play the instrument came with it difficulties, as it took some time for him to be able to perform a simple tune, “I remember struggling for a while to make the pipes sound good, and feel comfortable. Once I got over that, it was magical, and I was truly hooked.”
So hooked that his talents and dedication through the years garnered him the role of not only being the principal tutor for De La Salle Combined Bagpipe but also president of the Pipe Bands’ Association of South Africa.
The Roosevelt Park resident’s appointment as president was announced at an AGM hosted by the association in November last year. Through this role, Hogg oversees the executive committee as chairperson in meetings, as well as projects to improve what they do and grow it within the community.
Hogg’s wish for the association is for it to empower younger generations through educational opportunities – ‘so that as they move through life, and find themselves in leadership roles, the standard of musicianship improves and the community remains healthy’.
For him, playing in a pipe band has taught him numerous invaluable life skills – dedication, discipline and foremost, patience. “But I have also met and made many friends along the way and found a place where I feel I belong,” adding he thinks this to be a challenge for most young people who are finding their footing in the world.
A misconception he thinks people have towards bagpipes is that they are for a certain type of person, and they are – musicians! As he sees it, beyond being a musician you do not need any specific background or cultural heritage to enjoy the wonderful music of the pipes and drums.
“If it takes you, you are in for a lifetime of joy, and friendships and become part of a truly global network that I have found to be most accommodating,” said Hogg.
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