Alabaster Firefighters Pipes & Drums
WE
WANT YOU!
The band is currently recruiting new members. Below are the most frequently asked questions we get when discussing the band.
For more information, contact Jim Golden at 205-296-6456 or by e-mail.
Why should I join?
TRADITION,
HONOR, DUTY
It is important for the Alabama fire service to have a fire department bagpipe band to honor fallen firefighters and
celebrate the fire service.
The Alabaster Firefighters Pipes & Drums is the only fire department bagpipe band in the
entire state of Alabama. We are proud to serve our brother and sister firefighters and continue the tradition started many years ago
but we need more help. WE NEED YOU!!!
What is the band's mission?
The band is organized to honor fallen firefighters.
This is our first priority and most important responsibility! In addition, we strive to promote the brotherhood and spirit
of the fire service, and serve as ambassadors for the cities and departments we represent, as well as the Professional
Firefighters of Alabama.
What can I do?
Bagpipes, snare drum, bass drum, tenor drum. We are also looking to add an additional
Drum Major to help lead the band at performances.
Do I have to have previous musical experience?
NO! Of our current roster
of members, only two had played musical instruments before joining the band.
Do I have to be a firefighter or affiliated
with the fire service?
YES!
Who will teach me?
WE WILL! Band members provide bagpipe instruction to new students at no charge.
Our drummers are instructed at an off-site location by a highly accomplished pipe band drummer.
How long will
it take for me to learn?
It varies. Bagpipes and drums are like most anything else: you will only get out what you put in. Bagpipe
students should expect to be able to play Amazing Grace on the practice chanter within the first three months of starting lessons
if they are following the track set by the instructors.
What are the costs associated with joining?
MINIMAL!
For bagpipe students you will need to purchase a practice chanter and a tutor book (a practice chanter is what all bagpipe
students learn on and is something you will continue to play throughout your bagpipe career). We provide these so everyone learns from
the same text and the approximate cost for the combo is $75. Drum students will need to purchase sticks and
a practice pad. Again, we provide these and the approximate cost is $60.
Once you reach the level to perform
with the band, the band will equip you with your uniform. Bagpipers are responsible for the purchase of their bagpipe. The band purchases
all drums.
How often does the band practice?
The band practices weekly from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm at an Alabaster Fire and
Rescue Service station.
Can I join if I don't live in the Birmingham Metro-Area?
ABSOLUTELY! Our goal is to have
members representing all areas of the state. We have a plan for potential members who live out of the area to insure
they receive quality instruction. Also, we have a plan for members who live out of the area to be able to practice with the band on
a regular basis once they reach the performing level.