Glenaura Pipes and Drums

The Glenaura Pipes and Drums

The Glenaura Pipes & Drums were founded in October of 1990. Pipe Major Bill MacLeod and Pipe Major Tommy Thompson were the founders of the band. Pipe Major MacLeod had a long and distinguished career of piping and teaching in Manitoba. Pipe Major Thompson was a member of the storied Shotts & Dykehead Band in Scotland and also a leader of top flight bands in Canada. 

The band was comprised of many young pipers and drummers in the beginning, but under the leadership of the Pipe Majors the band moved from Grade 4 to Grade 3 and finally to Grade 2 in five years. 

Mr. MacLeod became Pipe Major Emeritus in 1994, with Pipe Major Thompson becoming the active leader and setting the musical direction of the band. 

Over the next number of years, the band competed in Manitoba, Ontario, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and Minnesota. The band has won many awards at numerous competitions, including taking top honours in Grade 2 at The Calgary and Canmore Highland Games. 

In 2001, Pipe Major Leigh Ward stepped up to the leadership position as Pipe Major Thompson had become quite ill. Shortly thereafter, Pipe Major Thompson passed away. The band was most honoured to play at his funeral. 

Pipe Major Leigh Ward continues as our Pipe Major to this present day. The band currently plays in competitions, concerts, parades and performances. For more information about the band, check the website: www.glenaura.ca 

Information compiled from the Glenaura Band website.