I am proud and extremely honored to have been chosen to serve as the Pipe Major of the Fire Brigade Pipes and Drums of Greater Baltimore. This is a unique band because we are the first and only regional fire department pipe and drum band in the Baltimore Metropolitan area. We are also unique because our members consistently demonstrate an unrivaled level of pride and dedication that is apparent in our performances. Our unofficial motto has become to “have fun and play good music”. I believe the reason that each member of the band shares such a strong sense of spirit and teamwork is because we are firefighters who share a common bond – we are accustomed to combining our individual talents to work toward a common goal.  I feel that this spirit of pride and teamwork has been a key element contributing to the success of the band and it shines through during our performances.

 Another major reason for our success is the dedication and talent of my predecessors, our first Pipe Major Jim Dunn and his successor Todd Marino. Each of these men has left an indelible mark on the group and played a key role in overseeing the tremendous progress that has occurred in the four short years that this band has been in existence. Both Jim and Todd continue to take an active role by performing with the band and teaching student pipers, we are grateful for their ongoing contributions. I would also like to thank Pipe Sergeant Dave Hunley, Drum Sergeant (and President) Allen Roody, Band Manager Bob McCurdy, our instructors Dan Lyden, Jonathan Quigg as well as retired instructor Carl Wark for their efforts, many of which occur behind the scenes but are crucial to our success.

 Finally, I would like to thank those individuals and organizations that have made contributions to the band, both financially and otherwise. Whether it is a donation to help us purchase uniforms, time working at our fundraisers, or providing us a place to practice, our band would not be where we are today without your support.  We are sincerely grateful.

 If you are a member of the fire service and think that you would like to join our elite group, please contact myself or any band member.  We would be glad to have you.

 

Mark Richards

Pipe Major

The Fire Brigade Pipes & Drums of Greater Baltimore