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History of the Band
The Band was formed in the 1960's along with the Military Band by an Officer in the West Yorkshire Fire Service who subsequently became the Chief Officer of the West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service as it is now known. Both Bands developed steadily over the years and throughout the eighties and nineties the Pipe Band was playing all over West Yorkshire and taking part in competitions.
Many Bands suffers from fluctuating fortunes and the West Yorkshire Pipe Band is no exception. The bulk of players left the Band at the beginning of 2003 – but the few that remained kept the Band going and membership has slowly but steadily increased. There is now a wealth of experience in both Piping and Drumming which as manifested itself in standards of music that continue to improve plus the desire and ability to pass this on to younger players.
The Band receives the full support of the West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service. Firefighters and non-uniformed personnel in the Fire Service are very welcome to join the Band – but equally, members who are nothing to do with the Fire Service are just as welcome to join.
The Band plays in “daywear” and wears kilts in the Ancient Red Ramsay tartan.
How to find us
The Band normally practises on Tuesday evenings, between 7.30pm and 10.00pm in the Training Room at the West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service Training Centre at Oakroyd Hall, Birkenshaw. The Training Room is located at the side of the garage overlooking the parade ground. Click here for map of how to find us.
Officers of the Band
Pipe Major
George Rokahr
Tel: 07831 543835
George joined the band in 1995.
Secretary
John Lamb
Tel: 01924 477659
John has been Secretary of the Band for many years.
Engagements
During the past year, the Band has undertaken a number of engagements with the Military Band but it has also undertaken a number of engagements on its own, including some street processions, some indoor functions and 2 Remembrance Sunday parades. Wherever the Band has played, they have been complimented on the standard and quality of their music.
Plans for the future of the Band
The plan for the Band is threefold:
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To continue to provide help, encouragement and tuition to all members in order to advance the standard of the Band’s music at all levels.
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To recruit more players, both Pipers and Drummers. Experienced players whould be very welcome – but the Band will welcome newcomers of either sex who cannot play the instrument of their choice but are prepared to learn. The Band will teach them. Potential players should not therefore be put off if they are prepared to put the work in. Learning to play the pipes of Drums properly requires hard work and much practice but the rewards are immense – not just for the individuals but for the Band and the Fire Service and general public who watch and listen to us.
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To re-establish the West Yorkshire Fire Service Pipe Band in the area.
Further Information
Please feel free to contact the Pipe Major or Secretary for any further information.