The Winnipeg Police Pipe Band Goes Global

Released: September 8, 2025 at 2:38 p.m.

If you’ve been to a parade, community festival, or even a special ceremony in Winnipeg, chances are you’ve heard the stirring sound of the Winnipeg Police Pipe Band. For more than a century, they’ve been part of our city’s biggest moments – whether celebrating milestones, honouring service, or lifting spirits through music.

But their reputation doesn’t stop at the city limits. In fact, it reaches across oceans. This summer, the band was invited to perform at the Belfast International Tattoo in Northern Ireland, one of the world’s most prestigious festivals of pipes, drums, music, and dance.

After a few years of dedicated fundraising by the members themselves, the band made the journey and proudly took the stage in Belfast alongside performers from Norway, Finland, Zimbabwe, and Ireland.

Winnipeg Police Pipe Band at Belfast Tattoo

More Than Music

The Winnipeg Police Pipe Band is made up of serving and retired members, as well as community volunteers. Wherever they go, they’re known for being:

  • Professional
  • Patient
  • Prepared

Since 1920, they’ve represented our Service, our city, and our province with pride. Their full-dress Royal Stewart Tartan is a symbol of tradition and service that’s recognized across the world.

They have entertained audiences in Afghanistan, France, Ireland, Las Vegas and Scotland. They are a staple of the annual Grey Cup Festival and have also played alongside Sir Paul McCartney!

But these trips aren’t just about music and marching. They’re also about connections. In Belfast, Supt. Chody Sutherland had the chance to meet with leadership from the Police Service of Northern Ireland, gaining insights into recruiting, technology in policing and officer safety. The experience helped strengthen the bonds between our two services and sparked conversations we’ll continue long after the last note was played.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Insp. Roxburgh was struck by how many young pipers were performing in Belfast – proof that this is a tradition very much alive around the world. Closer to home, our Pipe Band helps nurture that same spirit through the Lord Selkirk Robert Fraser Memorial Pipe Band, giving young people in our community the chance to learn the pipes, travel, and be part of something bigger than themselves.

That’s why the fundraising, the practices, and the long flights are worth it. It’s about keeping tradition alive while building for the future.

Why Pipes and Police?

The connection goes back to Irish and Scottish immigrants who brought the tradition of pipes into police and fire departments in North America. What started as funeral and ceremonial music has become a symbol of remembrance, respect, and service. Today, police pipe bands continue to inspire pride at parades, graduations, and national ceremonies while also building goodwill and strengthening community ties.

Want to Get Involved?

If you’ve ever thought about joining the Pipe Band, or you know a young person who might be interested, any band member would be happy to chat.

Visit the Winnipeg Police Pipe Band website for more information and details.

The Winnipeg Police Pipe Band extends sincere gratitude to the Police Service of Northern Ireland & their Police Pipe Band for their gracious hospitality & camaraderie.

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