The San Antonio Pipes and Drums, a non-profit organization
formed in 1986, strives to present traditional bagpipe band music
for the enjoyment of both musician and audience. Members
wear traditional Scottish attire, each kilt in an authentic
tartan of the member's choice so that many clans
are represented. Instruments played are the Great
Highland Bagpipes and specially tuned drums. The group
strives to improve performance and to encourage and assist
beginners. Participants range in age from teenagers to
"over 70" retirees. They average from 60 to 70
performances each year in special events, festivals, and
celebrations over much of Texas. A popular attraction
at the Texas Folklife Festival each year since their formation,
the band is also proud to have played for Her Majesty Queen
Elizabeth II and the president of Mexico when they
visited San Antonio. They represented the city of San
Antonio in a Fiestas Octubre Parade in Guadalajara, Mexico,
and were the first musical group officially to perform in the
Alamodome.