Pipe band
Sierra Highlanders Pipe Band
Reno, Nevada, United States
Reno-based pipe band founded in 1961, with a history of performances throughout Nevada and opportunities for students to learn piping and drumming.
History
Virginia City celebrated the birthday of Scotland’s poet Robert Burns in 1865. Nearly a century later, Scottish immigrant John “Scotty” Sneddon approached the Reno Police Department with the idea of forming a police pipe band.
According to the band’s history, Sneddon served with the Gordon Highlanders during World War I, becoming the youngest pipe major in the British Army at that time, and subsequently served as Pipe Major of the 1st Highland Light Infantry.
Only two police officers, Richard James and Calvin Lovegrove, answered his call, so Sneddon opened the band to civilians. Richard James’ wife, Wilma, suggested the name Sierra Highlanders.
The band formally established and incorporated in 1961. Founding members included Dr. James F. Flanagan, Jr., who became a longstanding piper, teacher and Pipe Major. Under his leadership, membership and performances expanded.
The band performed in Reno-area parades, San Francisco’s St. Patrick’s Day parade and county fairs in Flanagan’s hometown of Quincy, California. It also became a regular presence at Carson City’s Nevada Day Parade.
Band practice and student learning
The band’s practice listing names St. John’s Presbyterian Church, 1070 W. Plumb Ln., Reno as the venue.
Student learning and practice time is either 6:00–6:30 p.m. or 6:30–7:00 p.m. Check with your bagpipe or drum instructor for the exact lesson time and confirm the current practice schedule with the band.
New students and anyone interested in meeting the band can contact band president John LoGiurato at jdlogiurato@gmail.com.
Band practice and student information · Official band website.
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