07/19/10

COWICHAN PIPES & DRUMS

( CP&D Band )

The Cowichan Pipes & Drums has its roots with the Royal Canadian Legion Cowichan Branch (Pacific) #53, Duncan, BC. In 1975 Rod MacLeod, Peter MacDonald, Angus MacLeod, Ian MacLeod, Frank Nichol, Ron Monk, Gordon Monk, Mike Monk, Brian Watkins, Alex Turner, Walter Kuhnle, Mac Cannon, Chris Abbott and Alan Bruvold formed a Pipe band which was sponsored by RCL #53. During its association with the Legion there were notably Pipe Majors such as Rod MacLeod (Former C Scot R) and John Mager (currently personal Piper to the Lt. Governor of BC).

In the 1990’s Branch # 53 like many Legion Branches were facing financial difficulties. In order for the Pipe Band to survive it became necessary to have a break from Legion association. On December 24, 1996 the Cowichan Pipers and Drummers Society was given status. From this organization the CP&D was formed.

Since 1996 the CP&D has evolved into a community service pipe band. Players range in age from teens to seniors. The Band finds it’s home at the Valley Seniors Centre at Duncan, BC. The CP&D is led by Pipe Major Dr. Gordon Pollock, Drum Major R.L. (Bob) Smith and Lead Drummer Bill Dingee. CP&D perform during the year at many functions throughout the Cowichan Valley in both a parade and concert capacity. The Band has a strong playing relationship with the Cowichan Valley Highland Dance organization.  The CP&D still keeps a tie with the RCL by supporting three local Branches at Remembrance Day ceremonies and competes annually as a civilian Pipe Band at the Legion Highland Gathering.

The CP&D wear the Drummond of Perth tartan and have created their own distinctive motto and crest which is worn with the band uniform.

MOTTO: CEOL AS AN TIR BLATH which is written in Gaelic and translates to MUSIC FROM THE WARM LAND. It was chosen to reflect the name “Cowichan” which means “Warm Land”.

CREST: The crest has at the top, in yellow, a setting sun to reflect the province of BC which is the western edge of the old British Empire the birth place of the Great Highland Bagpipes. The sun also represents the “WARM LAND” of the Cowichan Valley. The crest depicts hills, green, in recognition of the whole Cowichan Valley which the CP&D serve. Immediately below the hills are wavy blue lines to represent the river from which Cowichan Valley takes its name. There is a Cross of St. Andrew, white on the blue of the river, at bottom centre, reflecting the Scottish heritage in the Cowichan Valley.

By Gerard Wright