Find out more about the different sections within Queen’s Bands
Brass Band
Distinguishable by their red tunics and glens, the Brass Band is the heart of Queen’s Bands’ sound. The instruments they play range from woodwinds, brass, and percussion alike. You may recognize the songs they play, for most of their repertoire consists of pop songs, along with classic Queens songs such as Oil Thigh. Whether they are performing at football games, parades, or other special events, the Brass Band upholds the vibrant traditions of Queen’s University.
Pipe Band
The Queen’s University Pipe Band is recognizable by their green tunics and the distinct sound of the highland bagpipe. They play at numerous events on and off campus including all home football games, homecoming, and various local parades. The Pipe Band’s repertoire consists of traditional Scottish music such as Scotland the Brave, Bonnie Dundee, and the Green Hills Tyrol as well as the various dance tunes which they play for the Queen’s Bands Highland Dancers.
Drum Corps
Along with the Brass Band and Bagpipes, the Drum Corps are the third music based section within Queen’s Bands. Their bass drums keep the marching beat for the entire band and their drum solos will blow you away! The drum corps also works closely with the pipe band and highland dancers. Along with the snares and toms, the section can be seen often doing percussive pieces that are as intricate and dynamic as they are energetic and captivating.
Highland Dancers
The highland dancers can be seen dancing around the field or courts at halftime and jumping alongside the band during parades. If you’re lucky, they might be giving out high fives! Some of their most notable dances include the 4-step fling, the jig, the sword and the reel! With every spirited leap and precise turn, they bring the joy and tradition of Scottish dance alive.
Cheerleaders
The Queen’s Bands’ Cheerleaders are the oldest cheer team at Queen’s, making their first appearance in the 1940s! The cheerleaders perform dances, marching routines, and game-day cheers to the tunes of the Brass Band. One of their most iconic routines is Old Queen’s Sweater which is performed each time the football team scores a field goal. The team’s vibrant performances play a crucial role in energizing the crowd and enhancing the game-day atmosphere at Queen’s.
Colour Guard
The Queen’s Bands’ Colour Guard is the face of the bands, leading the way with their iconic red sweaters and majestic flags waving in the wind. Whenever people ask them what instrument they play in the marching band, they proudly answer “the flag” and never get tired of the confused looks they get in return. The Colour Guard proudly carry Nationals and perform eye-catching routines with spinners. Keep an eye out and see if you can identify all the flags that they’ll be carrying this year!
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