The Pipe Band began in the military with drummers and their original purpose on the battlefield to signal tactical movements and keep rhythm on the march. Over time pipe bands were adopted by organizations such as the police and fire brigades. Today the Scottish Pipe Band is a common sight at any Highland Games celebration. Most gatherings feature a range of piping and drumming competitions.
The Scottish Pipe Band consists of a section of pipers, and the drum corps made up of a section of snare drummers several tenor drummers and a single bass drummer. The band follows the direction of the pipe major.