GEAR.
Wake and District proudly uses gear from some of the following manufacturers.
We wouldn't hesitate to recommend them for your band.
MELVIN REEDS
Precision Sound
Melvin reeds are designed to deliver "precision sound." These shoulder-cut reeds sound as crisp and clean as they look and pair well with a wide range of chanters. An accomplished piper, teacher, and adjudicator, readmaker Adrian Melvin knows how a great chanter reed needs to perform. Melvin reeds are made in the U.S.A.
This reed has a brass tube staple which has a punchier sound and slightly sharper High G and High A.
Premier
HTS800
The Premier HTS800 is the latest evolution in pipe band snare drum technology, designed to deliver exceptional tone, superior durability, and effortless tuning.
Handcrafted to Premier’s highest standards, the HTS800 represents a fusion of tradition and innovation, building on the legendary HTS line to meet the demands of modern pipe bands.
The HTS800 features a precision-engineered aluminum shell, optimized for both resonance and strength. Its high-tension system allows for unparalleled tuning stability and crisp, articulate snare response—perfect for the competition field or performance stage.
Developed with direct input from top pipe band drummers, the HTS800 incorporates cutting-edge hardware enhancements for maximum efficiency. Every component is crafted to enhance playability while maintaining the unmistakable Premier snare sound that has led the way for decades.
With an iconic look, exceptional build quality, and a commanding sound, the HTS800 is ready to take pipe band drumming to the next level.
Experience the next generation of pipe band snare drums—Premier HTS800. #TheSoundOfPremier #HTS800
Melvin-MacLellan Mac-A Chanter
Setting the Tone
The MacA Chanter from Melvin Reeds and MacLellan Bagpipes; a groundbreaking collaboration designed to conquer tuning challenges in North American climates.
We're using an innovative material crafted from a polymer akin to the sought-after sound and stability of 1980s polymer pipe chanters. Crafted at 480/481 Hz, it ensures stability even in scorching temperatures, promising a robust, full-bodied tone. Key features include minimal tape usage, a unique high A for added character, and a modified reed seat for enhanced stability and sound quality.
Flashes
Bespoke Kilt Flashes
A small piece of fabric… carrying two decades of memories. We’re honored to embark on our 20th year together wearing these beautiful bespoke flashes from Linda’s Personalised Flashes — a quiet but powerful symbol of where we’ve been, who we are, and the journey still ahead. The checkerboard woven into the design is more than decoration — it reflects our founding roots and continued service to public safety. A tribute to those who serve, and a reminder of the purpose behind every step we march.
Thank you, Linda, for helping us mark this milestone with something meaningful.
