A Brief History of the Band

"Hey Jan, want some students?"

It all started with four adult students, two from classes offered in the Tamalpais High School Adult Education program in the early 80's. Week after week the intrepid quartet slogged through exercises and simple tunes. Like all pioneers, the going was rough - the first "Flashers"  had no one to listen to but Jan and each other and going was slow!

Eventually, however, we were joined by others - new and somewhat experienced, and the ball began rolling in earnest.

Jan still contends that what she said was '"Whatever comes naturally out of the work we're doing is fine with me." This philosophy, while refined to meet the needs of a growing band, has never altered significantly.
The band's doors continue to remain open and the level of challenge is determined by the individual. Support and instruction are available to assist each member to achieve his or her goal.

Through trial and error the band began to grow in size and quality of sound.
Kilts were ordered in the Ancient Hunting Mackintosh.
Our first Bass drum, A closer look at the beautifully painted bass drum reveals "The Flasher" peeking modestly from behind a Redwood tree, one of our local treasures.
Besides playing for our own enjoyment and that of our audiences, the band has participated in and hosted workshops as a means of sharing top quality instruction with other players throughout the state and beyond.
Two decades from those beginning scales, a champion grade IV band, currently boasting 23 pipers, Five side drummers plus students, two tenors, three bass, a drum major and six dancers, is a strong voice for adult enthusiasts of Scottish music. The band will continue as long as there is energy and a willingness to go on. Good will, tolerance and cooperation substitute for politics and we look forward to many wonderful adventures to come!
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