On May 2, the Seton Hill University Pipe Band competed in the West Virginia Pipe Band Championship at the Scottish Festival and Celtic Gathering in Bridgeport, W.Va., and took first place in the Grade 4 band category.

The Seton Hill University Pipe Band, formerly the Allegheny and District Pipe Band, was formed in 1993 under the direction of Pipe Major A.G. Lee, Jr. and Pipe Major David Thompson and currently has 24 members. The band became part of Seton Hill University in 2007.

“The pipe bands have a long history and initially started as military bands. The Scottish Regiments often used pipers, and later bands, to march into battle. Today, there are numerous pipe bands around the world. We are proud to represent Seton Hill and its tradition of supporting music education and community music,” said Lee.

Seton Hill University Pipe Band members include Bill Campbell, Dray Campbell, Judy Campbell, Tom Dumm, John Dunlap, Allen Dunson, Joelle Gearhard, Darren Humbert, Mark Knox, A.G. Lee, Ashlea Lee, Debra Lee, Bruce Liberati, Megan McClure, Kevin McHeffner, George Stewart, Georgie Stewart, Denise Tanyer, Zach Tanyer, David Thompson, Dave Werkheiser, Teresa Werkheiser, Hannah Whittaker, and Jill Whittaker.

The Seton Hill University Pipe Band has the following performances scheduled for the remainder of 2009: Wellington Ohio Scottish Games on June 27; Edinboro University Scottish Games at Edinboro University on July 25; Virginia Scottish Games in Winchester, Va., on September 5; Ligonier Highland Games on September 12; Seton Hill University Homecoming on September 26; and Fort Ligonier Days Parade on October 10.

The Seton University Pipe Band is available for performances for parades or private ceremonies. For more information regarding instruction or hiring the Seton Hill University Pipe Band or a small ensemble of pipers and drummers, contact Pipe Major A.G. Lee or Debra E. Lee at 724-420-5320 or ashlea1985@aol.com.