SFU steps up with Pipe Up for Cancer charity concert

The six-time World Champion Simon Fraser University Pipe Band is putting its talent to charitable work at the Simon Fraser University Theatre in Burnaby, British Columbia, with all proceeds going to the BC Cancer Foundation.

The band was moved to action after the diagnosis of one of its greatest members – and one of the world’s best solo pipers – Andrew Bonar was diagnosed with a brain tumour in November 2014, undergoing radical emergency surgery.

A member of SFU since 1981, “Boney” is continuing treatment at the BC Cancer Agency. Following his surgery he contributed an important piece to pipes|drums.

The band will be joined by the Heather Jolley Highland Dancers, which include Andrew Bonar’sdaughter, Kate, who will also perform at a ceilidh following the show.

Tickets are available to the concert are available here, and, to the ceilidh, here.

The band is also hoping to stream the concert live, encouraging all those watching to make a donation to the cause.

“If you are able, please consider making a donation directly to the BC Cancer Foundation in honour of Andrew and the impact he has on the worldwide piping community,” said SFU Pipe-Sergeant Jack Lee. “Together, we can make a difference for brain cancer patients now and in the future.”

The pipe band world in recent years has stepped up for charitable causes, including the drive by Fiona Morris and the Grade 1 Boghall & Bathgate Caledonia Pipe Band of Scotland to raise funds for bone cancer research.