The Rhode Island Highlanders were formed after World War II in 1948 primarily by returning veterans who were dedicated to preserving and performing the traditional music of Scotland and Ireland. The Band has continued to pursue this goal in subsequent years and has become particularly active in teaching young students so that the bagpipe and drum music can be passed correctly on to new generations.

Three of the past influential Pipe Majors who helped shape the Band were John Everett MacLean, Alexander R. Glen and John Sullivan. During the early years, under P/M John Everett MacLean, the Band toured the competition circuit with great success winning not only in the U.S., but in Canada. In the middle years, with younger people becoming involved, the Band, under the guidance and direction of P/M Alexander Glen, provided a place for music primarily focusing in the recreational venue playing at parades and other events.The Band, under the direction of P/M John Sullivan, worked with the musicians to transform it from a recreational unit into a nationally recognized competitive Pipe Band of some distinction with many trophies and awards to its credit.

The Rhode Island Highlanders Pipe Band is currently under the direction of Pipe Major Debbie Kane, Debbie, a piper who learned in this band, has played with the Rhode Island Highlanders since 1977.

As a Band, we work together to achieve our goals which are: to proudly come together to play Pipe Band music to the best of our ability; to offer our services to the community in the form of parades and events; to continue to improve, grow and teach the musical art of Pipes and Drums; to provide an opportunity to participate and enjoy the competitiveness of the Highland Games not only as soloists, but also in a Band environment; to enjoy and share our music and our friendships.

During our 2007 Season we competed as a Band in Grade 5 in the Eastern United States Pipe Band Association (EUSPBA). The results of the various Highland Games and events we participated in can be viewed at: EUSPBA.org - go to events calendar and drag down to results. At the Annual General Meeting of the Eastern United States Pipe Band Association, which was held in Pittsburgh, PA on Saturday, November 10, 2007, the Rhode Island Highlanders were recognized and awarded 1st Place Overall Points and the Season Champion - Grade 5 Band of the EUSPBA for 2007.

The Band has just been upgraded by the EUSPBA. We are all very excited that for the 2008 Season we will be playing in Grade 4 in the Band events. We are continuing to provide a place for musicians to not only begin, but advance their musical careers in the Pipe Band world.

The Rhode Island Highlanders Pipe Band welcomes anyone interested in joining our Band.

12-07-2007