Band ready for new grade: major

The South Canterbury Highland Pipe Band won their grade for a second time running at the nationals in Auckland this month.

Drum major Phil de Joux said the band had put in a superb performance to notch up the overall aggregate win in Grade 4B.

"This is the second time running at the nationals that the band has been successful in winning their grade."

Mr de Joux said they also came second in the Grade 4B street march.

Other trophies awarded to the band were winning Base Section Grade 4B and winning "MSR" in their grade.

They had travelled to Auckland to compete in the New Zealand Pipe Band National Contest on March 15 and 16.

Pipe major William McArthur said it was likely the band would be moved up a grade this year.

However, Mr McArthur felt the band was well prepared to compete at that level.

He was delighted with the result and congratulated all the players who gave their upmost over the weekend.

The band will be holding an open day on April 7.

Mr de Joux said the day would allow members of the public to get up close and personal with the pipes and drums.

"Interested persons can have a bash on the drums or a blow of the pipes and be able to see how they might learn to play either instrument."

He said everyone was welcome to come down to the band room where members would be on hand to assist.

The band was always looking for new members and for players who who might be looking to get involved in playing again.

The open day will be held between 11am and 2pm at the band room in 1 Turnbull St in Timaru.

For any further inquiries phone 0274422454.