Linlithgow and District Pipe Band - Frequently Asked Questions

We have compiled a listing of frequently asked questions for anyone interested in joining the band, and indeed for some of those already playing in the band.

1. Where and when do we practice ?
The band practices twice a week on a Monday and a Thursday.  Practice times are 7:30pm until 10:00pm.  Both practices are held in Linlithgow Academy, Linlithgow.  We are in the Library Mondays and Staff Room Thursdays

2. Does it cost me anything to play ?
Linlithgow and District Pipe Band are completely self funded and as such we have a monthly dues system for the band. Every player whether a learner, Grade 4 or Grade 3 and regardless of age is expected to pay by Direct Debit or Standing Order.

3. What do I get for my money ?
Dues are an essential part of our setup to help the band survive, these funds go towards paying for uniform, buses and of course equipment. Included in your monthly subscription is free transport on the buses to contests.

4. Do you run buses to contests and what are the costs ?
Where and when it makes sense we will run buses to contests. Local contests such as Bathgate, Shotts we will not run buses but contests further away we will run buses. All players paying dues pay nothing for the cost of transport on the buses. Any non player travelling with us on the bus will be charged a flat rate of £5, with the exception of the World and Cowal Championships, these are slightly higher..

As a fairness to ALL players and supporters, typically there will only be one pick up and drop off and that is the West Port, Linlithgow.  There is one exception to this which is when the band are heading to the West of Scotland to compete we will stop at Stirling Service Station and pick up there.

4. What is supplied to me and what do I need to purchase myself ?
When you’re ready to play with the band you will be given a certain amount of kit. All players will receive a Jacket, Waistcoat, Kilt, Belt, Sporran, Tie, Cape and Glengarry. It is the expectation that all players will pay for their own Brogues, Socks, Short Sleeved Shirt (supplied by band) and Flashes.  On top of this the band will also supply :-

Pipers - Pipe Chanter, Pipe Bag, Drone Cords, Linlithgow embroidered Bag Cover.

Drummers - Sticks, Pads, Harness and Drum.

5. I need to buy flashes and socks, where can I get these and what do I buy ?
The band plays with white socks, with the bobble tops and red flashes. These are available from most pipe band outlets, however locally we recommend Stewart Highland Supplies in Lauriston, Falkirk.  If you say you play for Linlithgow and District they will know exactly what to supply you

6. What equipment does the band play ?
The band uses the following setup :-

Pipers - Goatskin Bags and Shepherd Chanters

Side Drummers - Premier HTS 700 Drums in Gun Metal Grey Shells, Jim Kilpatrick Drum Carriers, Remo Cybermax Top Skins, Remo bottoms, KP2 Sticks and Alba Percussion Pads

Tenor and Bass Section - Complete range of Premier Hosbilt Tenors (14”, 15” and 16”) and Premier Hosbilt Bass Drum, Hosbilt Slings, Tyler Fry Platinum Beaters and Jim Kilpatrick Bass Drum Carrier. Linlithgow and District were the 1st pipe band in Scotland to play the Tyler Fry beater in 1999.