PPBSO Youth Development Committee is Full Steam Ahead!
- Malkie Bow
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
PPBSO Announces Major Youth Development Initiatives: Ontario Youth Pipe Band and Teaching Symposium
The Pipers’ and Pipe Band Society of Ontario (PPBSO) is excited to announce two significant initiatives spearheaded by its Youth Development Committee, aimed at fostering the growth and development of young pipers and drummers across the province.
Malkie Bow, PPBSO President, stated: "Developing and encouraging our youth is a priority for the PPBSO Board and we are committed to supporting this cause in any way we can. The establishment of the Youth Development Committee is an important step".
Ontario Youth Pipe Band (OYPB) Gears Up for 2025
Building on the successful inaugural performances at the 2024 Georgetown Highland Games and the PPBSO Gala, the Ontario Youth Pipe Band (OYPB) is set to make waves in 2025. The OYPB is a performance-based (non-competitive) band dedicated to connecting young players and promoting music education through the art of highland piping and drumming.
“The OYPB provides a unique opportunity for young musicians to learn, grow, and build lasting friendships,” says Tyler Bridge, Chair of the PPBSO Youth Development Committee. “Our goal is to create a rewarding and educational experience that motivates players to improve their skills and confidence.”
The primary focus for 2025 is a spotlight performance at the Fergus Highland Games Tattoo on Friday, August 8th. To prepare for this event, a band practice/workshop day is planned for the spring or early summer.
Recruitment efforts are underway, with local bands and teaching programs being contacted to identify potential members. Interested young pipers and drummers are encouraged to contact Tyler Bridge at tyler.r.bridge@gmail.com for the OYPB signup form.
The PPBSO Youth Development Committee, which held its first meeting on February 24th, will prioritize the continued development and support of the OYPB.
Teaching Symposium: Connecting and Empowering Educators
In a parallel effort to strengthen music education, the PPBSO is partnering with the BC Pipers’ Association to host a Teaching Symposium in the fall of 2025. This event aims to bring together pipers and drummers who teach throughout Ontario for a day of networking and educational enrichment. There are plans to have a hybrid, in-person and online option for educators to attend.
The symposium will feature guest speakers from both BC and Ontario, providing valuable insights and resources for educators. The goal is to connect various teaching programs across the province, encourage cooperation, and share information to build and expand these programs. Ultimately, this initiative will help foster greater participation in piping and drumming among youth in Ontario and beyond.
"This symposium is a crucial step in supporting our teaching community," says Bridge. "By connecting educators and sharing best practices, we can create a stronger foundation for the future of piping and drumming in Ontario."
The PPBSO is committed to investing in the next generation of pipers and drummers through these initiatives. Further updates, including details on the Teaching Symposium and OYPB progress, will be released in the coming months.
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