The Cochrane Pipe Band is gearing up to celebrate its 20th anniversary at their annual Robbie Burns event this Saturday evening (January 19).

A packed house of partygoers will gather at the Cochrane RancheHouse for good food, great drinks, and even better music as they celebrate the band's milestone.

As the only original band members still performing, Bagpiper Susan Flowers and Snare Drummer Rick Deans, are especially excited about this weekend's party. In fact, this year, shares Flowers the event sold out quite quickly in anticipation. "It is amazing; it's been all word of mouth and we didn't have to do any real advertising. People that have supported us over the years are anxious to come because of the anniversary celebration and that we have Fraid Knot coming."

This year's 20th party will certainly be one for the books, states Flowers, as they bring back the Celtic band, Fraid Knot whose sound can be described as a 'knotified' blend of Celtic and Rock music. 

On top of great music, a traditional roast beef feast with all the trimmings is being planned which will, of course, include haggis. "Before we eat the haggis will be addressed by Eric Peach who was one of our early members; so someone will pipe it in and then there will be a big deal made about it before someone stabs it."

The evening festivities will also include tons of toasts to both the lads and lassies, scotch tasting, a silent auction, Highland dancing, and of course a repertoire of great music. "We have some singers this year who have joined our band so they will sing and then we pipe, of course. We will be performing the big piping arrangement that we have been working on for months, featuring new tunes. It is quite lengthy."

Although they are hoping to raise $3000 to $4000 in funds from the auction to offset costs of an upcoming summer learning trip, Flowers says the focus for the band this year is more on the celebratory component. 

Rick Deans, as the only other founding performing member, says his twenty-year history of drum beats is something he has been proud to be part of. "Being an original member of the band and performing with a variety of musicians over the years has enriched my life musically and also brought me new friendships with like-minded people. It has been a great honour representing Cochrane provincially, nationally, and internationally at various events, pipe band schools, and gatherings."

Close to 200 people will come together to toast to the band's past 20 years of great music as well as Scotland's National poet, Robbie Burns. 

Born on January 25th, 1759, Robbie Burns was known for his charismatic, colourful life as well as his famous poetry and song compilations. Although the famous poet and lyricist passed away at a mere 37 years old, his poetry lives on with one of his more famous works 'Auld Lang Syne' being recited every New Years Eve.

So raise your glass as we toast to Scottish history, kilts, poetry, and great music. Congratulations to all the past and present members of the Cochrane Pipe Band for bringing a touch of Celtic to our community.

Of course, if anyone is interested in joining the Cochrane Pipe Band or has an interest in learning how to play the pipes you can contact the band HERE.