Got Pipes: The Journey of our Young Irish Pipers
This month, we proudly spotlight the young Irish Pipers band, who gather at the Irish Center every Monday and Thursday night to practice. On September 21st, they performed brilliantly with the older members of the band at a fundraiser to help cover the costs of new uniforms, instruments, and advanced lessons—a once-in-a-generation effort to secure the bands future. The Irish Pipers band is a dedicated group of known for never failing to perform when asked-that has always been my experience having been involved at the Center now for six years.
Infusion of Youth — The bands youth initiative began back in July 2022, breathing new life into this cherished tradition. As John Carlin jokingly remarked at the time, the initial aim was “to lower the average age of the band members.” From that point, these young pipers have come a long way, adding their own spirit and energy to a legacy that spans decades. There are three generations of the O’Leary family currently playing in the band.
Approaching 100 Years — The band will celebrate its centennial in 2032, and we expect a thriving youth band by then—a dream that’s becoming more real with each passing month. The music of the pipes, with its timeless power to stir our emotions and connect us to our history, continues to inspire both players and listeners alike.
Early Challenges -—Of course, the journey hasn’t been without its challenges. When the classes began, most of the kids had never touched an instrument like this before. Their first lessons on the chanters—a beginner’s version of the pipes—were a blend of excitement and frustration. Longtime piper Mike Bowler agreed with me when I said those early sessions “sounded like cats screeching!”
Dedicated Instructors — Some of the younger students found themselves struggling with the precision needed to play even a single note correctly. But beyond learning the technique, they began to understand the deep cultural and historical roots of the pipes, a lesson their dedicated teachers—Maggie Baglin, John Carlin, Alex Lentz, Mike Bowler, Tom Harvey, and Frank Hagan—made sure to emphasize.
These teachers were key to the kids’ success, often staying late to give extra help to students who needed more time. By mid-2023, something magical began to happen. The kids who once fumbled with the basics started to play in harmony. They moved from the chanters to the drones, a major milestone marking their readiness to play the full set of bagpipes. Their teachers predicted that they would be ready to march in the 2024 St. Patrick’s Day parade.
Though there were moments of doubt—especially when group practices turned chaotic—the sense of camaraderie kept them going. Parents also played a crucial role, managing schedules and encouraging their children to stick with it.
Pipers on the Circuit — Now, these young pipers are proud to perform together at community events, representing not just their band, but also the spirit of Irish music and culture. Their journey from novice musicians to accomplished players is a testament to the power of tradition and the importance of investing in our youth.
Praise the Youth — As the old Irish proverb goes, “Mol an óige agus tiocfaidh sí”—Praise the youth and they will flourish. How quickly we’ve seen that come true.
Open Call for Players — The band continues to attract new students all the time, with drumming on Mondays and piping on Thursdays. Call the Pipers at 415-218-3067
Emerald Dinner — The Bay Area Law Enforcement Emerald Society will host their annual dinner dance at the Center on October 19th, 2024. Congratulations to Officer of the Year, Kohl O’Keefe, SFPD, Tenderloin Station; Patrick Lane is been honored as Citizen of the Year. One of our own volunteers Val Kirwan (SFPD Ret.) has been selected for the Lifetime Achievement Award. Tickets from John Hallisy 415-618-9388.
Police V Fire Boxing — We expect a large crowd at the center on Saturday October 26th when the men and women of the SF Fire Dept. and SF Police Dept. take to the ring to raise money for their educational scholarship programs.
Irish Music Shows — Traditional Irish Music enthusiasts are spoiled for choice in the coming weeks. Guitarist John Doyle and button accordionist Mick McAuley will play the Emerald room on Friday October 25th. JigJam who last year played the Grand Olde Opry in Nashville will play at the Center on Wednesday October 30th. Irish fiddler Sorcha Costello and concertina player Marry McNamara will perform on Saturday November 2nd. Lots to look forward to as the evenings start to close in.
Rebel Cork Dinner — The Rebel Cork Dinner will take place on Saturday December 14th. Mary Jo Feeney has been announced as this years honoree.
Fall Membership Drive — The year end drive for new memberships has commenced. Give the gift of an Irish Center membership this holiday season. Go online to www.irishcentersf.org
Liam Reidy, President