SFU Pipe Band plays first free concert in three years this Sunday

The internationally-acclaimed SFU Pipe Band is preparing to compete at the World Pipe Band Championships in Glasgow, Scotland. Photo by HANDOUT /Vancouver Sun

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You don’t have to travel across the pond to hear one of the best pipe bands in the world showcasing their musical prowess. This weekend, the acclaimed Simon Fraser University Pipe Band performs a rare free concert at the university’s main campus.

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The SFU Pipe Band has taken home the top prize six times at the World Pipe Band Championships in Glasgow, Scotland. The group has finished top four in the world 24 times in 40 years of competition. Only four groups located outside the United Kingdom have ever won the Grade 1 honours.

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This weekend’s performance is part of the pipers’ preparation for the World Pipe Band Championships which will take place this year on August 14 and 15 on Glasgow Green. Since 1947, the event has traditionally taken place on the second Saturday of August. In 2025, the group took fourth place.

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Pipe Major Alan Bevan says the members are ready to return to the medal positions in 2026. Their core competition team comprises anywhere from 38 to 50 active players, while the full SFU Pipe Band organization and affiliated youth and development ensembles includes over 150 members.

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Students are well familiar with the sounds of bagpipes and drums in rehearsal on campus, in preparation for globe-trotting performances and competitions.

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“The band has been working very hard to continue sharpening our game and build on the progress we’ve made in the past couple of years,” says Bevan. “We’ve got an excellent team this season and the vibe in the band is really positive. We have been very happy with the consistency of our performances at the local competitions this season so we are feeling really good about playing in Glasgow.”

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The outdoor venue for the competitions reflects the time-honoured traditions of pipe bands across history, with pipers leading soldiers into battle, performing at Royal and governmental events. Those attending are advised to dress for the weather and to bring a chair or blanket for seating as there are no bleachers at the location.

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This free concert is the band’s first since 2023 and will include the affiliated Robert Malcolm Memorial Pipe Band, a youth development program for aspiring pipers and drummers.

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The last time the group held a concert on the campus, over 300 people attended. In 2025, the band lead a global representation of pipers and drummers from across Canada performing for the opening ceremonies of the Invictus Games in Vancouver.

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Tickets to the free concert this weekend are available at eventbrite.ca.

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Those wanting to hear more bagpipes and drums can consider attending The British Columbia Tattoo, a large scale indoor performance featuring military pipers, drummers, brass bands and drill teams takes place on Aug. 22 and 23 in the Agrodome at this year’s PNE. Tickets and info at pne.ca.

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