The Kuala Lumpur Pipes and Drums Band: Where Music Transcends All Boundaries

A Unifying Force

With the resonating roll of drums and the continuous drone of bagpipes, a troupe of over a dozen men marches through the shopping centre, serenading the crowd with beloved classics like “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “Jingle Bells”. Adorned in tartan kilts, Glengarry hats, and shoulder bags laden with their majestic Highland bagpipes and drums, the Kuala Lumpur Pipes and Drums band has become a quintessential part of the holiday season across shopping malls in the Klang Valley.

A Band Like No Other

Founded in 2009, the band consists primarily of former classmates from SMK Tinggi Setapak, where they once played together in the school’s own pipe and drum band. What sets them apart from other Scottish-inspired ensembles is their versatility in performing traditional music across a broad spectrum of cultural celebrations.

Amirul Mazlan

A Diverse Repertoire

Band manager Amirul Mazlan takes pride in their eclectic repertoire, from patriotic songs like “Jalur Gemilang” to iconic Bollywood tunes like “Pyar Diwana” and even Chinese classics such as “Tian Mi Mi”. “We aim to play everything we can; there are no limitations. We’ve performed at national day parades and played at Malay, Chinese and Indian weddings. We’ve done it all,” he told FMT.

Creating Musical and Social Harmony

For snare drummer Kenny Ho, who has been with the band since its inception, performing not only brings him joy but also gives him a sense that he is contributing something greater than himself. “I love playing (in the band). It makes me happy and brings about a sense of togetherness. Our diversity unites us. It also allows us to give back to our community. Seeing our community joyful makes us happy,” he said.

Kenny Ho

Spreading Joy and Unity

Percussionist Arif Aqmal encourages anyone with a love for the bagpipes to join the band in spreading joy and unity this season. “The passion for music isn’t about race or religion; it comes from within ourselves. Playing in this band is just the best. It unites us despite our differences in race, ethnicity or religion,” he told FMT.

Arif Aqmal

Conclusion

As shoppers of all ages stop to watch, taking videos, singing along and children joyfully dancing, it’s clear that their Sunday practices are paying off: the band’s performances offer more than just music; they’re an expression of community and connection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What sets the Kuala Lumpur Pipes and Drums band apart from other Scottish-inspired ensembles?
A: Their versatility in performing traditional music across a broad spectrum of cultural celebrations.

Q: What kind of music does the band perform?
A: They perform a diverse range of music, including patriotic songs, Bollywood tunes, Chinese classics, and more.

Q: How did the band get started?
A: The band was founded in 2009 by former classmates from SMK Tinggi Setapak, where they once played together in the school’s own pipe and drum band.