The year in news: the Top 10 pipes|drums stories of 2011
#3. New Zealand piping and drumming rocked by quake
When a massive earthquake hit Christchurch, New Zealand, the destruction hit home with pipers and drummers when the venerable Canterbury Caledonian Pipe Band organization’s band hall and much of its equipment were destroyed, leaving the band’s future very much in doubt. The New Zealand Pipe Band Championships were even canceled. With the help of the piping and drumming world – including nearly $2,500 raised by pipes|drums – the band got back on its feet, and even was able to travel to Scotland to compete at the World’s. Another reminder of the inherent generosity of the pipe band world to look after its own.
Excellent summary. Ending with a reminder of the good byes we had to say to the great characters and friends we share the love of the music with, puts it all in perspective. How lucky we are to love the pipes and share the music and our lives with such wonderful folk!