Making Noise with NEAC

Burns Night - 2010 SUCCESS!

David Corbett — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 17:30:00 GMT

Well, with help from many, and patience, Burns Night 2010 happened and is deemed a success. A postponement, finding out 2 days before the rescheduled date that the Haggis had "gone bad", even the donated mashed potatoes evaporated on the day, but all in all, the friends, families and band members pulled it off.

The program lasted about 2 hours with a mix of pipes & drums, Nova Scotian fiddling, a ballad, short readings, toasts and humor to and at the expense of the Lads and Lassies, a great meal and of course.. Haggis (overnighted from Beans Meats in Maine).

Here's a couple of pictures of the venue before the crowd arrived, hopefully someone will send me some of during the event which I'll post.

Burns Night: RESCHEDULED:

David Corbett — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 17:36:00 GMT

The BURNS NIGHT has been rescheduled, due to snow and ice, to Saturday Feb. 6th. Same time, location etc.

This means there is yet a few days to get tickets.. just a few left..

David

Burns Night 2010 tickets, now on sale!

David Corbett — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 01:40:00 GMT

Buy your Burns Night tickets, Online via Paypal!

Burns Night 2010 - Saturday Jan 30.

David Corbett — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 04:54:00 GMT

Pictures from a photo shoot with photographer Amanda Warden

David Corbett — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 04:51:00 GMT

Pictures, Concerts and more!

David Corbett — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 02:53:00 GMT

Busy couple of weeks past, and it's just going to get busier with Schools cranked up, and the holiday season fast approaching.

The band had a photo shoot with local Jonesboro based Amanda Warden and she has started posting the pics up on her Fotki site. there could be as many as 500 in the end. Feel free to order any pictures from her site and multiples of each!

In the last 7 days, the band has played a 1 hour concert in Kennett, MO (just beating the rain, barely) as well as opening the Dinner Theater at the Jonesboro First Presp Church tonight.

A few of our kids will be competing over in Memphis this next Saturday (Sept 26) at the 11th annual ClanJamfry

While we are busy as a band, and as individuals in general, we do have some open dates through the last of the year when we might be hired to play your event. We're trying to raise money for more gear, training and uniforms. Check our calendar on the website and fee's.

Band donates drum heads to local school.

David Corbett — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 02:43:00 GMT

The Jonesboro based "Northeast Arkansas Caledonian Pipes and Drums" donated two brand new 28" Pearl bass drum heads to the Hoxie High School band program on Monday, August 31.

Shown in the photo giving and receiving the drum heads are: Amanda Riley (Assistant band director, Jason DeBerry (Hoxie percussion instructor), Dannie Vaughn (Snare drummer in both the NEAC pipes and drums & Hoxie band), Alex Ditto (Hoxie bass drummer), Corey Emerson (Hoxie band director) and Danny Vaughn (Pipe Sgt. of the NEAC Pipes and Drums).

The NEAC Pipes and Drums will be in concert in Kennett, MO on Sunday, Sept 13th, in Jonesboro at the First Presb. Church's "Kilts & Klucks" on the 19th, and participating in the Memphis "Clanjamfry: A Scottish Festival" on Saturday, Sept 26th.

Anyone interested may contact the band at: fireham@yahoo.com, 901.233.2903 or dropping by a regular Sunday practice at the Presb. Church on Southwest drive. More information at www.neacpipes.com

Friends of Music - Kennett

David Corbett — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 15:17:00 GMT

Joke: Pipe MacKay passes

David Corbett — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 15:21:00 GMT

Piper MacKay unfortunately passes away and his wife contacts the local paper to publish an intimation of his death.

The phone receptionist asks Mrs MacKay what she wants to put in the paper.

Mrs MacKay replies “Angus Mackay, piper is deid.”

“That’s a bit blunt” replies the receptionist do you not think that you want to say a bit more. And besides it’s the same price for up to 30 words."

“Ah weel, in that case, I’ll have to give a wee bit further thought. I’ll call you back.”

A few minutes later Mrs MacKay phones again and says “I’ve had a further thought on what you said. And I think I’ll do what you suggested”

“Good says the receptionist. And what do you want the intimation to say?”

Mrs MacKay replies, “Angus MacKay, piper is deid. For sale - Set of Henderson bagpipes, full silver with ivory mounts. With aluminium carrying case, spare cane reeds, polypenco practice chanter. £2000 or nearest offer.”

Free Concert, Jackson, TN

David Corbett — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 02:02:00 GMT

The Appleton Family Band along with Steve Bowman will be performing at the Old Country Store in Jackson, TN. on Friday, August 14th at 6:00 PM. Admission is Free

Make plans to bring the whole family for this wonderful occasion. You'll enjoy every minute!

New World Celts

David Corbett — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 15:09:00 GMT

There is a fast growing, international association called "The New World Celts", who's mission is (from their website):

To promote awareness of the outstanding contributions and history of the Celtic Peoples in the formation and continuance of the New World.

To provide a forum for the exchange and promotion of Celtic cultural information between the Celtic Associations of the New World; To act as liaison for coordination of and assistance to these Organizations.

To provide a vehicle for charitable donations to promote Celtic culture in the New World in the areas of Cultural awareness, music, dance, athletics, re-enactments, and other areas deemed appropriate by the International Board of Directors.

To support all Celtic cultural non-political, non-religious, non-racist organizations that espouse the same high ideals as ours, regardless of whether they are Scot, Irish, Galician, Manx, Welsh, Breton, or Cornish.

To perpetuate Celtic Culture and history in the New World.

To provide a fraternal atmosphere for members.

I post this here for two purposes, to help get the word out about them, and also to see if there is any interest in starting a chapter in the Jonesboro, Kennett and / or Memphis area.

I as the Pipe Major of the NEAC band, really cannot commit to becoming the driving force behind this, or even a primary "officer" should a chapter be started, and indeed, as one of their primary focus's is to support celtic artisans (music or otherwise) the possibility of a direct conflict of interest would also prevent it, however If there is interest, I'll do what I can to help.

I received the following from Mike Dunlap, overall president of the organization re: how to start a chapter:

"please review our website, take a look at the different chapters.....no fee, just get ten members at $25/yr and I'll charter a chapter for you.....monies raised there stay there and dues come to us...we give you a banner, use of the website and copyrighted logos, and lots of support from your peers, plus a manual of how to.......we are Not looking to make money we want to give money away......

call me laddie

mike dunlap president"

Any interest?

David Corbett

Arkansas Fallen Hero's Memorial

David Corbett — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 03:27:00 GMT

For once, an entry that's not about us.

ARKANSAS FALLEN HEROES MEMORIAL is a non-profit organization dedicated to honoring America's Fallen Military Heroes. The FLAG FIELD commemorates the military soldiers from Arkansas that gave the ultimate sacrifice in the global wars and it is with great honors that the Arkansas Fallen Heroes Memorial pays a lasting tribute to each of these fallen heroes by preserving their memories within these pages. The FLAG FIELD travels throughout the communities of the state of Arkansas, and will continue to do so until enough funds are raised to erect a permanent memorial that will replicate the flag field. The permanent memorial will be placed at the Military Museum in Jacksonville.
All who visit the FLAG FIELD will be deeply moved by the countless stories of selfless courage and heroism exhibited by these military soldiers who lost they lives while serving and protecting the citizens of this great nation, THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

Upcoming Youth Competition

David Corbett — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 20:52:00 GMT

Saturday, Sept. 26 2009

Still working on some details, but we have scheduled a non-sanctioned, youth solo piping and drumming competition. The usual EUSPBA events will be offered, including (hopefully) a full Piob event.

It is open to those 18 and under, pipes, drums, practice chanter & drum pad.

In addition, I'm adding a mini-band competition. This is by necessity open to mini-bands with members of any age.

The composition of the mini-band is limited to:
3 pipers
1 snare
Either 1 bass -or- one tenor (but not both)

There will be 2 events. an EUSPBA style march medley and an "anything goes" (almost), which could be fun.

I'm still working on nailing down judges, and the trophy for the mini-band.

If you or someone you know is interested in participating, sponsoring or even judging this.. please contact me:

The event is being held in conjunction with; CLANJAMFRY: a scottish festival, however the competition is a separate event / effort.

David Corbett
901-233-2903
fireham@yahoo.com

4th in the Forest - Casual Picnic

David Corbett — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 03:11:00 GMT

Just a note, that the band, friends and family will be having a casual picnic at Craighead Forest, Saturday July 4th. We will be playing as much as we can, and eating and just having relaxing and having fun. We'll start gathering early (8-9ish) and leave whenever people want to bail, or the major crowd starts showing up, whichever comes first.

David

Playing in Truman

David Corbett — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 03:09:00 GMT

Playing at "UFC" (United for Christ) youth building. Video

Standings Update

David Corbett — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 03:46:00 GMT

Just gotta brag on our people. Following the Glasgow, KY games our people are currently ranked thus:

Grade 4, Jr (176 pipers)
Derek Reed, Ranked 14th

Grade 4 Jr Snare (77 drummers)
Dannie Vaughn, Ranked 16th

Grade 3 pipes (269 pipers)
Danny Vaughn, Ranked 56th

Grade 4, Sr (710 pipers)
Robert Gill, Ranked 56th
David Corbett, Ranked 1st overall

Glasgow Games: Glasgow, KY 2009

David Corbett — Sun, 31 May 2009 14:55:00 GMT

SHOW ME THE MEDALS!

NEAC travels to the Bowling Green area and brings back more high placings in solo competiton.

8 medals, and 10 top 5 finishes were received by the drummers and pipers of the Jonesboro based "Northeast Arkansas Caledonian Pipes and Drums" during the annual Glasgow, Kentucky Highland Games and Gathering of the Clans.

The Glasgow games are one of the premier gatherings in the Eastern half of the United States. With highland sporting events, Clan (Family) gatherings, vendors, Pipe Band competitions and a very well attended pipe and drum solo competition, this event is a true test of skill for our local musicians.

5 members of the Caledonians made the over 5 hour drive to the Bowling Green area, and competed against up to 16 others in any given event. The results are:

Our under 18 members:

Jasmine Gill (Kennett, MO) - In her first sanctioned competition on highland snare drum, she placed 4th. Way to go Jaz!

Dannie Vaughn (Hoxie, AR) - Continuing his successful streak also on the highland snare, 3rd place. Keep it up Dannie!

Derek Reed (Jonesboro, AR) - Playing in four separate events on the highland pipes, 2 First's, 1 Second, 1 Third. Can you say -BLING-.

Our over 18 members:

Dannie Vaughn (Hoxie, AR) - In only his third competition after being upgraded to a higher classification, and thus playing against stiffer competition, Danny recieved a 5th place finish.

David Corbett (Alicia / Marion, AR) - 2 First's and 1 Second. Playing this way, David will likely be upgraded for 2010 and begin giving Danny even more competition in a few months.

We're very proud of all our members, those that are able to travel to each competition as well as those who cannot. We're also grateful to the friends and family who support us as we work to improve, and especially those that travel with us, help lug gear, feed us, support with cheers and applause.

6th Grade pipe band drummer, recieves "Superior" rating at Missouri school solo contest

David Corbett — Wed, 13 May 2009 17:25:00 GMT

On May 9th 2009, A student from the Hoxie School District participated in the Stoddard County Music Contest in Dexter MO., and received the highest rating that can be awarded. "Superior" This rating is not given out lightly, or often. While the majority of the students who compete in this event, and do well, are nearing graduation.. The Hoxie representative.. is in 6th Grade.

Dannie Vaughn is a member of the Northeast Arkansas Caledonian Pipes and drums and is well acquainted with competitions in the Scottish community. Public school competitions are new, but not enough to worry the lad in the least. Dannie performed a 2/4 March, standard score that Scottish style drummers play while in massed bands and in band settings. A very technical piece I can assure you. Dannie played in front of the judge with a flawless performance and received great remarks. There are 4 categories that a student could of placed in,(4) Fair,(3) Good,(2) Excellent and (1) Superior.

Dannie took the superior rating. Additionally he was awarded "Most Outstanding Percussion" for 2009, 6th grade, at Hoxie. With 6 more years to go at Hoxie, we can only imagine how far he will go. Well done Dannie!

Dannie will next be headed to Glasgow Kentucky to compete in the Glasgow highland games and solo competitions, May 29th.

Arkansas Scottish Festival - 2009

David Corbett — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 19:38:00 GMT

Wow.. what a weekend! While we didn't get to do a band competition, we did get excellent comments about our demo. How much we're improving, how good we sounded in general (heard from one with a good ear, and that knows the bands within several hours of us, that had the normal contingent have showed up, we most definitely would be at least in the middle of the pack, if not higher). I can only imagine the results of the solo drumming competitions, if and when we ever get to put our trio out there to show their stuff.

Here's the majority of the "press release" I just sent out, leaving out only the listing of who is in the band, because.. well we know who we are:

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Saturday April 18th, the Northeast Arkansas Caledonian Pipes and Drums traveled to Batesville Arkansas to take place in the 30th annual Arkansas Scottish Festival, held on the grounds of Lyon College. This is the 2nd time the band has attended and participated in the festival

Normally there are band competitions, solo drumming and solo piping, however this year they had only the solo piping events, with the bands in attendance playing 20 minute sets as demonstrations.

In the solo piping competitions, NEAC pipers brought back:

Derek Reed (Jonesboro): 4 first place finishes and his 2nd Piper of the Day, Grade 4 Jr division.
Robert Gill (Kennett, MO): Played 2 events, and got two 5th place finishes out of a field of 10 pipers in Grade 4 Sr division.
Danny Vaughn (Hoxie): In his second competition in Grade 3, a 1st, two 2nds and a 3rd place finish.
David Corbett (Alicia / Marion): Earned two 1st place finishes, a 2nd and two 3rds. He also received his second Piper of the Day award this year in Grade 4 Sr.

With the 2009 competition season well under way, the Eastern United States Pipe Band Association cumulative standings are beginning to be posted. This association covers most of 25 states from Maine to Texas. Our standings to date (not including this weekend's events) are:

Grade 4 Jr division, 157 registered pipers, Derek Reed is currently ranked 21st
Grade 4 Sr division, 662 registered pipers, Robert Gill - 59th, David Corbett - 4th
Grade 3, 259 registered pipers, Danny Vaughn - 43rd"
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

These press releases are starting to sound all the same.. we show up.. we play, we win, we go home. (but I kinda like the sound of that)

I've got recordings to edit down and hope to get on one or more CD's to give out, as well as all the pictures I've collected so far, from 4 people.

I hope I didn't get too stressed or short with anyone, if so, please I ask for forgiveness. And as another lesson in humility.. those keys I was panic'ing over.... were found, in the pocket of the shorts I had on.. under my kilt. HA! oh well, at least they were found.

Those that came - Thank you sooo much
Those that brought friends and family - Again, thanks, and I hope they felt very welcome

NEAC racks up at OPD

David Corbett — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 20:13:00 GMT

4 members of the Northeast Arkansas Caledonian Pipes and Drums gathered together in Walnut Ridge at the home of our ever humble Pipe Sgt Danny Vaughn early on the morning of March 27. From there it was an 8 hour, mostly Yoda & Wookie free drive to Oklahoma City for the annual 'Oklahoma Piping Debate"

Once safely at the Best Western, we braved the 37 degree wind and rain on a cross parking lot trek to the Applebees for dinner. I'm glad to say, no members of the party were lost in the attempt or return trip. Following the meal, and some email checking back in the room, it was conversation and sleep, ready for an early morning of.. well, honestly.. waiting around til time to play.

This competition marked several "firsts". Derek's first sanctioned competition, Danny's first competition in Grade III, the band's first competition other than solo's, having the 4 of us play the competition set as a quartet, and the results added to that:

The first time our members took Piper of the Day in 2 Categories (Derek - Gr 4 Jr, David - Gr 4 Sr)
Robert's best finish's ever, (4th in the slow air, 5th in the 2/4 march)

In the end, out of 17 tunes played in solo competition, we brought back 14 medals, and not a single placing lower than 5th (and yes there were more than 5 competitors in some of the events).

Below is a bit of the bling & swag we merry 4 brought back. Lets see if we can increase the haul at the Arkansas Scottish Festival on the 18th!