The Heartbeat of The Citadel
The distinctive sound of bagpipes first graced The Citadel in 1955, and their resonant tones have become a celebrated tradition ever since. The Citadel Regimental Pipe Band, one of the college’s most iconic attractions, features a drum major, skilled pipers, and drummers. Formed alongside the college’s band in 1955, the Pipe Band, led by the kilted drum major adorned with a Highland feather bonnet, serves as the vibrant centerpiece of the Regimental Band and Pipes.
Renowned for its striking performances, the Pipe Band is a favorite at dress parades and various events throughout South Carolina and beyond. It actively competes at Highland Games across the U.S., participating in Grade IV and V levels. While the Pipe Band occasionally performs independently, it is an integral part of the Regimental Band, functioning as a cohesive unit within The Citadel’s cadet company.
Initially clad in the red Royal Stewart tartan, the Pipe Band adopted The Citadel’s own tartan in 1981. Registered in Edinburgh, Scotland, this tartan reflects the college’s colors: blue and white represent the college’s official colors, gold symbolizes the brass on cadet uniforms, and red signifies the cadet officer’s sash.
Our Distinctive Tartan: A Symbol of Tradition
Initially clad in the red Royal Stewart tartan, the Pipe Band adopted The Citadel’s own tartan in 1981. Registered in Edinburgh, Scotland, this tartan reflects the college’s colors: blue and white represent the college’s official colors, gold symbolizes the brass on cadet uniforms, and red signifies the cadet officer’s sash.
Begin Your Piping Adventure Today
The Citadel Regimental Pipe Band invites musicians with limited or no prior experience to join our ranks and learn the art of piping. Embrace this opportunity to become part of a storied tradition and develop a new skill.
Representing The Citadel, South Carolina and the United States, the Band displayed the highest level of professionalism and poise at The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, the world’s most renowned military music festival.
The Citadel Regimental Band and Pipes will proudly represent the United States for the fourth time as the country’s designated military band.
Regimental Band Director Lt. Col. Timothy Smith knew he wanted to compose something original for the band when inspiration struck – The Citadel was getting ready to celebrate 100 Years on the Ashley.