International Performances

The Touring Band

The international performance arm of TSC Old Boys Pipes & Drums, representing the band at military tattoos, international competitions, and formal events around the world.

The Commitment

What It Takes

Time

Monthly

In the lead-up to a tattoo: one evening a week, one Saturday a month. Daily individual practice recommended.

Investment

$3,000+

Full kit for tattoos and parades. Can be acquired gradually over 1-2 years as you progress.

Travel

1 Tour/Year

Usually one international tour per year (Edinburgh, Basel, etc), plus annual local events like King's Birthday.

Uniform Guide

What You'll Wear

Street Parade Uniform

Foundation

The standard parade uniform worn for street marches, local parades, and competitions. This is the foundation that all touring members need.

Glengarry w/ OB Badge $120
Black Vest $50
White Shirt $40
Scots Old Boys Tie $50
Kilt (Black Watch) $700
Day Sporran (Leather) $150
Hose Socks (Cream) $55
Flashes $30
Ghillie Brogues $220
Total ~$1,415

Tattoo Extras

Performance

For military tattoos like Edinburgh and Basel. These items are in addition to the Street Parade uniform.

Tunic $800
Horse Hair Sporran $800
Spats (2 Pair, White) $170
Belt w/ OB Badge $120
Cross Belt (Pipers Only) $70
Plaid (Pipers Only) $500
Plaid Brooch (Pipers Only) $100
Drummers: add ~$1,890 to base. Pipers: add ~$2,560 to base for full tattoo kit.

Rehearsal Attire

Merch

Branded band gear for practices, tours, and social events. Mandatory for all touring members.

Band Touring Cap $35
Band Polo $55
Band T-Shirt $38
Mandatory Total ~$128

Optional Extras:

Band Fleecy Jacket $100
Band Puffer Vest $80
Band Rugby Jersey $75
Investment

Investment Tiers

Financial

$30/year

Paid-up band membership

Parade Ready

~$1,415

Full street parade uniform

Tattoo Ready

~$3,300+

Parade + tattoo extras

Full Kit

~$3,500+

All uniforms + merch

Gear

Recommended Equipment

Bagpipes

$2,000 - $8,000+

Most pipers already own their own pipes. Contact the Pipe Major for recommendations on suppliers and specs.

Practice Chanter

$80 - $150

Essential for daily practice. Long or short depending on preference.

Shepherd Chanter Reeds

$20 - $25 each

Consumable item - stock up! Buy several to find ones that work for your chanter.

Ezeedrone Reeds (Set)

$130

Polycarbonate tongues for tenors & bass. Reliable and consistent.

Hemp (Black & Yellow)

$25 each

Black for chanter and reeds, yellow for drones. Essential maintenance supplies.

Chanter Tuning Tape

$13

For fine-tuning chanter notes. Essential for getting your pipes in tune.

Braw Bagpipe Tuner

$50

Digital tuner app specifically designed for bagpipes. Highly recommended.

Metronome App

$15

Practice timing. Many free options available, or invest in a quality app.

Practice Pad

$116

Essential for daily practice. Portable and quiet for home use.

Sticks (Promark Stephen Creighton)

$44

White sticks. Band standard for consistent appearance and feel.

Snare Drum & Harness

Band Issued

Contact the Drum Sergeant for drum allocation and harness fitting.

Your Journey

Getting Started

1

Express Interest

Contact the Pipe Major or Band Secretary. Attend a few practices to meet the band and see if the touring commitment is right for you.

2

Request to Audition

  • Get the music from the Pipe Major or Drum Sergeant
  • Record yourself playing and send in the recording
  • Get approved and welcomed into the touring band!
3

Get Your Kit

Organise your measurements and place orders for required uniform.

Tour FAQ

Common Questions

Planning for a major international tour like the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo? Here are answers to the most common questions from bandsmen preparing for their first tour.

Can Old Boys travel with the College contingent?

Flights are booked separately for each group. Costs vary based on dates and availability. Timing is coordinated between members where possible to make the travel more enjoyable!

Can my partner/family travel with me?

Yes, but they need to make their own travel and accommodation arrangements. They're welcome at social events and can attend performances (tickets permitting).

What travel insurance is required?

It is highly recommended that touring members have comprehensive travel insurance covering:
  • Medical expenses
  • Trip cancellation/curtailment
  • Personal liability
  • Baggage and equipment (specify instruments if covered)
(Not financial advice. Do your own research)

Where do we stay while touring?

Food and accommodation is provided by the tattoo organisers.
  • Edinburgh: Pollock Halls @ Edinburgh University. Single occupancy rooms with shared bathroom facilities.
  • Basel: Twin rooms at the Movenpick Hotel.

Can my partner accompany me?

Accommodation will need to be sorted. Depending on the tattoo, there may be an additional expense to have your own room. Discuss with the band's Communication Officer in advance.

Can I book my own accommodation?

Yes, at your own expense, but you must attend all rehearsals, performances, and band activities. Discuss with the Tour Manager in advance.

Are meals included?

Yes, but each tattoo does this differently. Check with the Tour Manager for specifics about your upcoming tour.

What about dietary requirements?

Notify the Band Communication Officer well before departure. Venues can usually accommodate most requirements with advance notice.

How do instruments get to the destination?

Band arranges freight for drums and heavy equipment. Pipers typically carry pipes as hand luggage. Talk to the Pipe Major or Drum Sergeant for specifics.

What spares should I pack?

  • At least 2 working chanter reeds
  • Spare drone reeds
  • Hemp and waxed thread
  • Tuning tape

Can family get tickets to performances?

For events like Edinburgh Tattoo, tickets are available to public but sell out quickly. Book through official channels months in advance.

What's the typical performance schedule?

  • Rehearsals all day and night every day leading up to tattoo
  • Performances typically in the evening (4pm onwards)

Are there uniform security concerns?

YES! At high-profile events:
  • Never leave uniform items unattended
  • Sporrans, badges, accessories are theft targets
  • Use provided secure areas
  • Report issues immediately

Ready to Join?

The touring band is always looking for dedicated pipers and drummers. Whether you're a seasoned player or returning after a break, we'd love to hear from you.

Get in Touch