West Virginia college creates competitive bagpipe band

ELKINS, W.Va. — Recruiting efforts are currently underway to form the West Virginia Highlanders of Davis & Elkins College Grade V. Students versed in playing the bagpipes can earn up to a $5,000 scholarship per year based on audition performance.

Members of Grade V will share the same MacLeod of Lewis Scottish plaid and perform in parades and other special events along with the West Virginia Highlanders of Davis & Elkins College. In addition, they will compete at regional Highland festivals and games, and learn more about piping and Scottish traditions.

The current 20-member Highlanders pipe and drum band has a long history with Davis & Elkins College and the Randolph County community.

Formed in October 1947 as the official band of the H.W. Daniels Post 29 American Legion, the Highlanders group has continued many of its long-held traditions of music and dress with roots in Scottish heritage.

In 1990, the Highlanders began carrying a banner with their new affiliation and name - the West Virginia Highlanders of Davis & Elkins College. The band now represents the community and the college at various public events, and performs at multiple college functions, including commencement, Founders’ Day and other special events.

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