The Gates Keystone Club Police Pipes and Drums

Members of the Gates, New York Police Department founded the Gates Keystone Club Police Pipes and Drums in 1998. Founding members of the Band realized that there was no ceremonial police pipe band in the area to honor public safety and military personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice.

In the early years of the Band members had little or no musical experience and learned the pipes and drums with lessons provided by professionals or on there own. The early uniform was that of the police department, kilts came later.

Our services are offered to all first responders and military personnel who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

The Band has 22 members from the local police, fire, ems and military communities and a few dedicated members of the civilian community.

An article written by former Pipe Major, Chief Jim Vanbrederode, Gates, NY Police Department entitled “The Anatomy of a Police Pipe Band was featured in the January 2010, Federal Bureau of Investigation, “Law Enforcement Bulletin”.

Our CD, “Blessed are the Peace Keepers” contains Celtic, military and traditional pipe and drum tunes. Featured are everyone’s favorites “Amazing Grace”, “New York, New York” and the Notre Dame Victory March.

The Gates Keystone Club Police Pipes and Drums are honored and privileged to be a part of the 2024 Rochester, NY St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

“In Onoraigh Ar Marbh”

“We Honor Our Fallen”