About PPS

Our History

The Pittsburgh Bagpipe Society was formed in 1898, as researched by the late historian Rowland Berthoff. The Pittsburgh Piping Society reignites the long-snuffed torch of the original society. Though the 19th century iteration was noted for its teaching of Scottish immigrant children, the society aims to be more social than pedagogic.

In short, it’s modeled after the aforementioned Eagle Pipers Society, hoping to unite a long talented but somewhat fractured local piping community. Much like other similar societies, regular meetings with an informal atmosphere give pipers another stage outside of the competition platform whereupon they may simply turn up and have a tune. A Piobaireachd will be featured each meeting, giving the non-pipers and enthusiasts in attendance an opportunity to encounter our “Big Music.”


What to Expect at a Pittsburgh Piping Society Event

The stage set for the gathering at the Pitch on Butler

Pittsburgh Piping Society welcomes everyone to come and enjoy music and good fun with others in the Pittsburgh piping community.

This is an informal social event and the kickstart for those who signed up for the Jimmy McIntosh MBE Piobaireachd workshop – kilts are welcome, but not required!

A typical PPS evening consists of pipers of all abilities who play for a supportive audience – each performing for around five minutes.To close the night, we feature a piper who plays a longer selection for the assembled group, including a piobaireachd.


Board of Directors

Amy Howard
President, Treasurer

Andrew Carlisle
Vice-President

Christine Nolin
Operations Director

Sean McCarthy
Secretary

Casey Buchanan-Smith
Director

Maria Hofbauer
Director

Palmer Shonk
Director

Robert Felsburg
Director


Where to Find Us