Valley Forge Highland Band Hire A Bagpiper Or A Bagpipe Band

The Valley Forge Highland Band is one of the oldest and most respected Scottish bagpipe bands in the Greater Philadelphia region. Established in 1947 in Germantown, the band has preserved and promoted Highland piping tradition in southeastern Pennsylvania for nearly 80 years.

Founding and Early Years (1947–1960s)

 The band was founded under the leadership of its first Pipe Major, Bartholomew “Bart” Hamilton, whose dedication shaped the musical direction of the ensemble. Early standout members who helped build the band’s reputation included:

• Joe Nichols
• Barry Hamilton (Bart Hamilton’s son)
• Bob McConnell
• George Garthly

These early decades were marked by strong Scottish influence, community performances, and steady membership growth.

Practice Home at All Saints Episcopal Church in Norristown (1950s–2017)

For much of its history, the band practiced at All Saints Episcopal Church, located in Norristown in Montgomery County.

Many members were long-term parishioners, and several younger pipers and drummers came through the church’s youth programs, including the Boy Scouts of America.

The band’s deep connection to All Saints endured for decades, with rehearsals continuing there until 2017.

Current Home in Broomall, Pennsylvania (2019–Present)

In 2019, the Valley Forge Highland Band transitioned its practices to St. Mark's United Methodist Church in Broomall. Today, St. Mark’s serves as the band’s home for rehearsals, lessons, and instructional programs for new pipers and drummers.

Pipe Majors of the Valley Forge Highland Band

Bartholomew “Bart” Hamilton – Founder and First Pipe Major

Bartholomew Hamilton—known as Bart—was born in Northern Ireland and immigrated to the United States in 1927 at age 23. According to the 1930 U.S. Census, he and his family resided in Norristown. Bart’s leadership and dedication to Scottish musical tradition led to the founding of the Valley Forge Highland Band in 1947. His influence shaped the band for generations.

Barry Hamilton – Pipe Major - Continuing the Family Hamilton Piping Legacy

Following Bart’s passing, his son Barry Hamilton assumed the role of Pipe Major. Barry guided the band through many years of growth, performance, and teaching, inspiring both seasoned musicians and new learners.

Joseph “Joe” Raudenbush – Pipe Major (1990s–2019)

In the late 1990s, the position of Pipe Major transitioned to Joseph Raudenbush, affectionately known as Joe. Joe began learning the bagpipes in 1964 with the Valley Forge Highland Band. He became Pipe Major in the 1990s. He served faithfully until his passing in 2019. Joe’s long and steady leadership marked one of the band’s most musically robust eras.

Gerry Story – Current Pipe Major  (2019 - Present)

Today, Pipe Major Gerry Story leads the band, selecting the tunes, conducting rehearsals, and preserving the high musical standards set by the band’s earlier leaders. Gerry continues the mission of entertaining audiences and training the next generation of pipers and drummers.

One of the Oldest Pipe Bands in the Philadelphia Region

The Valley Forge Highland Band proudly stands as:

The third-oldest active Scottish bagpipe band in the Greater Philadelphia area

The only active Highland bagpipe band in Delaware County

Its uniqueness and longevity make it a cultural treasure for the region.

A Living Tradition

From its founding in 1947 to its present-day home in Broomall, the Valley Forge Highland Band remains dedicated to keeping the sound and spirit of the Great Highland Bagpipe alive. Through parades, ceremonies, concerts, and educational programs, the band continues to enrich southeastern Pennsylvania with Scottish music tradition.