DUTCH PIPES AND DRUMS
How to Learn Scottish Drumming
Scottish drumming, also known as pipe band drumming, is a specialized field within the world of percussionists. In a pipe band, the drum corps and the pipers form a tight musical unit. Within the drum corps, there are three instruments: the side drum, the tenor drum, and the bass drum—each with its own role, technique, and character.
Curious about how to start? Below we explain the learning process for each instrument.
General Foundation: It Starts with Rhythm
Regardless of which type of drum you ultimately choose to play, you first learn the basics:
How to hold your sticks (grip and posture)
Basic rhythms and striking techniques (rudiments)
Reading music (specifically for pipe band drumming)
Practicing on a practice pad to build technique
Once the fundamentals are solid, you transition to your chosen drum.
Side Drum (Snare)
The side drum is the rhythmic heart of the drum corps. It is a technically demanding instrument where precision and speed are central.
What do you learn as a Side Drummer?
Rudiments: flams, drags, rolls, paradiddles, and more
Traditional grip: often used in pipe bands for control and finesse
Musical interpretation: how to add dynamics and expression
Ensemble playing: learning to play in a tight unit with other snare drummers
What does the learning progression look like?
Practicing on a practice pad to build technique and control.
Playing simple patterns and parts from the pipe band repertoire.
Transitioning to the actual drum and learning to handle the snare system and harness.
Playing together in a drum corps and tuning in with the bagpipes.
It takes a lot of practice, but striving for perfection with a group is highly rewarding.
Tenor Drum
The tenor drummer combines rhythm with visual flair. This drum adds accents and musical depth to the band—as well as visual excitement with flourishes (stick movements in the air).
What do you learn as a Tenor Drummer?
Rhythmic patterns; supporting the side and bass drums
Hand and arm coordination; especially when executing flourishes
Melodic accents; tenors are tuned to different pitches and can add various depths to the sound
Collaboration within the tenor section; for rhythmic and visual synchronization
What does the learning progression look like?
Basic technique; practicing basic rhythms and holding the sticks correctly.
Learning flourishes; movements for visual presentation.
Playing accents that musically complement the bagpipes and other drums.
Playing together in the tenor line; often in choreography.
Tenor drumming is ideal for those who want to combine a sense of rhythm with expression and movement.
Bass Drum
The bass drummers are the foundation of the band. With deep, powerful strokes, the bass drum sets the "heartbeat" and provides the pulse that the entire band relies on.
What do you learn as a Bass Drummer?
Tight timing and rhythmic feel; you are the one the whole band focuses on.
Feeling the music: you determine the tempo and intensity.
Collaboration with the snares and tenors to support the ensemble.
Dynamics and cadence: you learn to vary sound strength and timing.
What does the learning progression look like?
Practicing timing, the most important part as the heartbeat of the band.
Learning basic motifs and rhythmic structures.
Physical training: the instrument is large and requires stamina.
Rehearsals with the entire band to master tempo and pulse.
As a bass drummer, you are an indispensable part of the ensemble and essential for the foundation of every musical piece.
Ensemble Playing and Growth
After the initial months or years of foundation building, you increasingly become part of the group. Rehearsals, performances, and maybe even competitions ensure that you continue to develop—not only as a drummer but also as a musician.
You will learn to:
Collaborate with pipers.
Play in street parades, shows, or competitions.
Read, understand, and execute repertoire.
Ready to Start?
Whether you seek the flair of the tenor drum, the power of the bass, or the technical challenge of the side drum—there is a place for everyone in our band's drum corps. We provide the lesson materials, experienced instructors, and a fun group of people; you bring a healthy dose of motivation, perseverance, and time to immerse yourself in this hobby.
