Our History
The Fredericton Society of Saint Andrew Pipe Band (FSSAPB) was established in 1927 with efforts by D.J. MacLeod and J.H. MacFarlane. The band started with three pipers and three drummers. Each piper and drummer provided their own instruments. The first bass drum was acquired from a defunct brass band, and modified to work in a pipe band setting.
Since it’s foundation, the FSSAPB has proudly worn the Gordon tartan. Uniforms were borrowed from ex-soldiers who had served in the First World War, including kilts. Some kilts were purchased from a local army surplus store. A few of them were even found with bullet holes from the battlefield.
From the beginning, the FSSAPB appeared at parades and large social occasions throughout Fredericton. They performed in parades, concerts, and meetings of the Fredericton Society of Saint Andrew.
A photo taken of the band in 1929 (courtesy of Harvey Studios, Fredericton)
(Left to right) Pipe Major J.H. MacFarlane, C.A. Voye, J.D. Campbell, D.J. MacLeod, Samuel Lean, J.A. Voye
In the mid-1960's the band began competing and the organization has fielded at least one competitive band every year since 1969. The FSSAPB continues to be one of the oldest piping and drumming organizations in North America.
“The Old Band Room” – Bldg 26 (Army H-Hut), Fredericton Exhibition Grounds. Taken in August 1961
In the Background – Ivan Downie and Clair MacMillan. At the table on the right (turned toward camera), Dr. Robert MacIntosh.
The FSSAPB in the 21st Century
The FSSAPB has grown over the years into a dynamic organization representing a teaching academy and two pipe bands with a long history of competitive success. The bands have been awarded the Atlantic Canadian Champion Supreme title many times, and the organization is well-known within the Canadian pipe band scene. Renowned for its ability to innovate, the bands consistently appear on the prize list; achieving competitive success overseas.
Members of the organization have performed in many places; including Ontario, the U.S., Scotland, and Europe. Notably, one of our member bands has traveled to France on 5 separate occasions (1998, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007); including two trips to the Festival Interceltique in Lorient. In September of 2007, the band represented New Brunswick at the Breizh Touch festival in Paris, France, with crowds of approximately 500,000 spectators.
The 2007 Grade 2 band playing in Paris, France
The 2017 Grade 4 band at the World Pipe Band Championships in Glasgow, Scotland