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The SFU Grade 1 bands is an adult band, while the RMM Grade 3, 4 and Starter bands are junior bands (players must be less than 19 years of age). The Robert Malcolm Memorial Pipe Band is named after Robert Barbulak and Malcolm Bokenfohr, two dedicated members of the SFU Pipe Band, who were killed in an automobile accident not of their cause in November 1993. The RMM band was formed in January 1994 to continue the development of talented and dedicated players, as Rob and Malcolm were.
In preparation for piping and drumming in the Robert Malcolm Memorial system, there is a six month Introduction to Scottish Music program for children 6 and 7 years old. Conducted by an experienced primary school teacher, the program teaches children the basics of Scottish music, including sounds, durations, rhythms, types and singing. Children also learn about parts of the bagpipes and drums, highland dress, and stories about Scottish people, places and events immortalized in famous songs. Classes include fun time for drawing and colouring class work.
Robert Malcolm Memorial Pipe Band
(Grade 5)
Youngsters aged 8 to 14 begin their piping and drumming instruction with the RMM Starter Band. Members of this group receive instruction from world champion SFU players such as P/S Jack Lee and L/D Reid Maxwell. The objective is to have young players exposed to world class players and teachers right from the beginning. The RMM Starter Band moves the youngsters through an instructional program that takes them through three instructional levels up to playing on the bagpipe and the side drum. Private instruction in addition to the weekly band practise is strongly encouraged. Once they can confidently play several complete tunes as a group, the players advance to the RMM Pipe Band Grade 4.
Robert Malcolm Memorial Pipe Band
(Grade 4)
The RMM Pipe Band Grade 4 begins player's exposure to competitive playing, both at band and solo levels. P/M Terry Lee, Jack and Reid encourage all band members in the organization to excel at both band and solo playing. Instructors try to create an environment where the youngsters can also have fun with their pals. Band repertoire consists of simple marching tunes in simple and compound time as well as a 3-5 minute medley. Band members will generally be at the Grade 4 solo level and will advance to the RMM Pipe Band Grade 3 when they have achieved the required playing standard. Because of the large number of players in the RMM Pipe Band Grade 4, we have created a 4A and and a 4B band for the 2000 competition season.
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The RMM Juvenile Pipe Band (2001 World Juvenile Chamions) and the SFU Pipe Band (2001 World Champions) pose after a successful day at Glasgow Green.
Robert Malcolm Memorial Pipe Band
(Grade 3)
The RMM Grade 3 band consists of players at the Grade 2 to 4 solo levels. The band plays the standard set of marching tunes, as well as a 3-5 minute medley and march, strathspey and reel. Band practises are twice per week. The RMM Pipe Band Grade 3 is our junior band that competes in Scotland at the World Juvenile Pipe Band Championships every second year.
Simon Fraser University Pipe Band
(Grade 1)
Entry to the Grade 1 band requires demonstrated achievements at the solo and band level. Players are almost exclusively at the professional (or top Grade 1 ) level in solo playing with many playing at a Gold-Silver Medal level. Band repertoire consists of an extensive range of "concert level" sets in addition to two 5-7 minute medleys and two march, strathspey and reel sets. Members commit to three practises per week as well as instructional sessions at RMM junior band practises. In addition, many SFU members instruct non-SFU players and other pipe bands across British Columbia and Washington State.
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