All PPBSO pipe bands should be aware that The Alliance of North American Pipe Band Associations (ANAPBA) has revised all massed band drum scores (snare, tenor and bass), which will now be referred to as “The Massed Band Cadences”.
This initiative was started by Jim Sim and Reid Maxwell, with many others, observed that the massed band drum scores were too difficult for novice drummers playing in grade 5 bands and community bands throughout North America. Many bands have felt obliged to teach the scores to beginner/novice drummers very early in their development so that they could be included in massed bands and parades. Because the scores are beyond the capability of novice players, too many individuals struggle to play them.
The new massed band cadences mean that even novice drummers should feel comfortable playing in massed bands.
Bass drummers in action at the Glengarry Highland Games
It is anticipated that this will improve massed bands at our Highland Games and at the same time support drummers who are in the earlier stages of development.
The new Massed Band Cadences will receive their first airing at Georgetown Highland Games next June, and all pipe bands will be expected to have these scores off and ready to play.
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