The Calgary Police Service Pipe Band is made up of serving and retired police officers as well as civilian members.
All members volunteer their own time to practice and perform.
The Calgary Police Service Pipe Band serves as a good-will ambassador for the Calgary Police Service and the City of Calgary.
The Calgary Police Service Pipe Band strives to be the premier show and competition Pipe Band in Canada while representing the Calgary Police Service and the City of Calgary.
Band performances are held with the permission of Colonel-in-Chief Rick Hanson.
Modeled after the Edinburgh Police Band (now Lothian and Borders Police), the Calgary Police Service Pipe Band was formed in 1973 by Bill Crabbe who was a Sergeant with the Calgary Police Service. For it's first public performance, the Band was given the honour of leading the 1975 Calgary Stampede Parade.
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| Portland Rose Festival, Grand Floral Parade (2008) |
The Pipe Band in their Number One Uniform with feather bonnets (2008)
Originally modeled after the uniforms of the Edinburgh Police Pipe Band (now Lothian and Borders Police), the CPS Pipe Band wears the Prince Charles Edward Stuart tartan.
The cap Band on all headgear exhibits a black and white dice pattern, (which Scottish police officers wear on their street uniforms) a trait that distinguishes police Pipe Bands from military Pipe Bands.
Each member of the Band is issued and required to maintain three Band regulation uniforms.
Competing in the Canmore Highland Games (2006)
The Band's regimental march is entitled "The Calgary City Police Pipe Band", and was composed by Bill Crabbe.
The Band carries five unique pipe banners;
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The Memorial BannerThis banner displays the Calgary Police Service crest and the names of the Calgary police officers who have been killed in the line of duty. The banner is carried by the Pipe Major. |
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The Centennial BannerThis banner, carried by the Pipe Sergeant, is a replica of the Calgary Police Service flag and commemorates the 100th anniversary of the Calgary Police Service. |
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The Chief Constable Coat of Arms BannerThis red banner is carried by the Pipe Corporal whenever the Chief Constable or designate accompanies the Band. |
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The First Leaders BannerThis banner is carried with respect by the most junior member of the pipe corps. The banner salutes the dedication and service of the first Pipe Major, Bill Crabbe, and first Drum Major, Bill Young - both of whom were founding members of the Band. |
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Calgary Police Service BannerThis banner is carried with respect by a member of the pipe corps and is in recognition of current serving members of the Calgary Police Service. |
The Calgary Police Service Robbie Burns Dinner is the highlight of the year for Band members. First held in 1976, this annual event is held on the Saturday closest to January 25, the birth date of Robert Burns.
The annual Mess Dinner is a tradition of the Band to celebrate the accomplishments of the Band, its individual members and recognizes the support of our members families. The Band Person of the Year, elected by his or her peers, is presented to a member in recognition of significant achievements and contributions. In addition to all members, this fine event is attended by the Band’s Colonel-in-Chief, Band Executive Officer, and Band Officer.