About Us
The District 50/50 Pipe Band Society
Established in 2004, the District 50/50 Pipe Band Society is a registered charity and non-profit organization. It was originally created to offer young musicians a chance to further develop their skills as they moved on from juvenile pipe band programs. To facilitate this, the society launched a Scottish music program called Greighlan Crossing Pipe Band.
The District 50/50 Pipe Band Society's mission is to promote Scottish culture and its musical arts through pipe band performances, highland games competition, musical instruction, and collaboration with other pipe bands on a national and international scale.
The society remains dedicated to its original goal of encouraging youth involvement by enhancing their skills in bagpiping, drumming, and musical performance, ensuring the next generation of musicians carries forward this rich cultural tradition.
Our History
Following the formation of the District 50/50 Pipe Band Society in 2004, the band's founders - Graham Davidson and Len Leroux - with the support of several prominent members of the pipe band community, began assembling what would become the Greighlan Crossing Pipe Band. The band entered its first competition in 2006, and has since established itself as a regular and successful competitor and performer.
Over the years, the band program has gained recognition in both the local and international pipe band communities. While primarily focused on providing cultural enrichment to southern British Columbia and the Pacific Northwest, Greighlan Crossing Pipe Band has extended its reach to audiences as far away as China, as well as the heartland of pipe band tradition - Glasgow Green, in Scotland!
GCPB Today
Today, Greighlan Crossing Pipe Band is a vibrant group of about 30 dedicated members. Over the years, hundreds of individuals have contributed their talents and efforts to the band’s success, shaping it into what it is today. Now 20 years later, our band reflects with gratitude on those who came before us, while embracing a spirit of growth, enthusiasm, and excitement for the future.
The band benefits from world-class instruction, competes in all the local Highland Games competitions, and proudly performs at numerous community events. With exciting opportunities on the horizon, we look forward to finding even more ways to serve and engage with our Community.
Whether as a playing member, a loyal supporter, or an interested spectator, we invite you to join us on this journey and help keep the traditions of Scottish music and culture alive!
How do you say "Greighlan"?
Believe it or not, the band’s name has been something of a challenge for announcers and organizers all over.
GCPB band members have had plenty of laughs over the years at the various pronunciations, with honorable mentions including: “GRAHAM CLOSSING”, “GRY-LEN”, "GREG-LAN" and more.
However, in the interest of proper public recognition, and “setting the record straight” as it were, the correct pronunciation of Greighlan is:
“GRAY-LEN”
Regardless of how it’s pronounced, we’re always happy to hear the name announced in the prize lists!