Harpenden Pipe Band, based in Hertfordshire, England. Founded in 1997, the band is available for gala days, parades, and events throughout the South East of England and beyond.
The Harpenden Pipe Band was formed by Bob Renwick in 1997 with only 5 Pipers, 2 side Drummers and a Bass Drummer, and very quickly rose to become a significant presence in the area. Harpenden Pipe Band originally wore Hamilton tartan kilts prior to purchasing the present tartan, Ancient MacInnes.
In 1998, the band made its debut at the Harpenden Highland Gathering.
By 1999 more members had joined and by 2000 the band had grown substantially. More importantly some junior members had joined, ensuring the bands longer term future.
Founder member, Bob Renwick, retired after a very successful tenure as Pipe Major in 2002, but continued to play an active role in the band until his death in 2005. Our present Pipe Major, Stephen Marshall leads the band in the same tradition, with a strong sense of direction, and an almost obsessive(!) passion for achieving a crystal clear, sharp sound.
2002 saw a major step in the bands progress with the first international event. The band participated in the Hamilton International Tattoo as it was then known. Members of the band returned to play in Canada for the following two years.