Two Kinds of People — in Pipe Bands and in Life

In pipe bands — just like in life — there are two kinds of people:

1. Those who point out what’s wrong.

2. Those who step up and make it right.

   
   

One spots the problem; the other starts the solution. One shrugs; the other grabs the chanter, the drumsticks, or the extinguisher — whatever’s needed to steady the tune.

The Band Hall Is a Mirror

A pipe band is one of the best mirrors of who we are. Every rehearsal tests patience, humility, and teamwork. It’s easy to hear a missed attack, a flat F, or a drum roll out of sync and say, “That didn’t sound good.” But real growth happens when you follow up with, “Let’s figure out why — and fix it.” That’s where leadership lives. Not in the titles, but in the actions that move things forward.

Communication Is an Instrument Too

Playing well together isn’t just about notes and rhythm — it’s about how we communicate.

Lazy communication says, “We’re not tight.” Active communication says, “We’re rushing in the second part. Let’s slow that entrance and lock in on the pulse before the break.” See the difference? One talks about problems. The other takes ownership of outcomes.

Good players transfer sound.Great players manage consequences — for the tune, the team, and the moment.

Beyond the Band Hall

The same rule applies outside the band. At work, at home, in your community — you’re either the one who points to the fire, or the one who runs for the extinguisher. You’re either adding to the noise, or helping tune it. When something’s off, ask yourself:

• What’s really happening?

• What’s the impact if nothing changes?

• What could be done right now to help?
  

Then do that. It’s simple. Not easy. But it’s what turns pipers and drummers into teammates — and teammates into leaders.

The Call

Pipe bands are built on people who choose to make things better — measure by measure, step by step. So whether you’re on the field or off it, don’t just narrate the problem. Be the one who steadies the line. Be the one who moves things forward.

Because in pipe band and in life, the world doesn’t remember the ones who pointed to the fire. It remembers the ones who picked up the hose.