Welcome to Albeni Falls Pipes & Drums
The Albeni Falls Pipes and Drums Band was founded in the year 2000 by two employees of the Albeni Falls Dam, located near Priest River, Idaho. With little or no experience in playing the bagpipes, or Scottish drums, the band started with six people who shared nothing more than the love of Scottish and Irish music. Bill Prater, one of the founders of the band, served as Pipe Major from 2000 - 2007 and is still an active member.
Albeni Falls Pipes & Drums was formed as a fun band in which all skill levels of pipers, drummers and Highland dancers could participate and enjoy performing in our communities. The band is based in Sandpoint, Idaho, but the members live in many of our communities in Idaho & Washington.
Support for the band over the past few years has been overwhelming. Donations to the band have allowed it to purchase instruments and uniforms for those who may not initially be able to afford them. The band's annual Benefit Concert also helps to purchase the needed equipment. The Albeni Falls Pipes & Drums is a non-profit community band that plays for many events in Idaho, Washington, Montana and Canada each year.
The band welcomes new members of all ages and also offers, at no charge, lessons on the bagpipes, drums, and in Highland dancing. Rehearsals are held Saturdays from 8:00 A.M. until noon at the First Lutheran Church, 526 S. Olive Ave., Sandpoint, Idaho. Come join the in the fun and experience the beauty, history and tradition of Scottish music with the Albeni Falls Pipes & Drums!
Our Mission Statement
"Albeni Falls Pipes and Drums of North Idaho is committed and genuinely dedicated to encouraging and supporting the interest of all individuals involving music, history, and heritage relating to Scottish, Irish, Celtic and other associated interests. Our diversified and multi-ethnic organization provides, free of charge, lessons for willing participants in Scottish/Irish bagpipes, drums and Highland dancing. Our goal is to bring Celtic culture to our youth, and any person interested, to preserve and keep these traditions alive through education and performance to future generations."
