The Great Highland Bagpipe is a powerful emblem of Scottish military and cultural heritage, with a history stretching back centuries. While its exact origins are debated, instruments resembling bagpipes were known in ancient Rome. The Great Highland Bagpipe specifically developed in Scotland over time, becoming prominent in the 17th century when it was adopted by the clans. It was more than an instrument; it was a tool of leadership and a form of communication. Its loud, penetrating sound could be heard over the din of battle, making it a powerful psychological weapon used to incite courage in friendly troops and sow fear in enemies. The pipes became intrinsically linked with the Highland way of life and, consequently, with the Highland regiments formed after the 1745 Jacobite Rising. Following this rebellion, the British government passed the Act of Proscription of 1746, which, in a bid to suppress Highland culture, outlawed many of their customs, including the wearing of kilts and the playing of the pipes. The pipes, however, were an exception, as they were cleverly exempted by being classified as an instrument of war, not music.
Pipers and Drummers in WW 1
In the First World War, the pipes were taken to the front lines where they served a vital, and often deadly, purpose. Pipers were not just ceremonial figures; they were tasked with playing traditional tunes to rally troops as they advanced across no man’s land. This was a particularly perilous role, as the pipers’ distinctive silhouettes and loud music made them prime targets for enemy machine gunners and snipers. Pipers of the 15th Battalion (48th Highlanders), for example, took their pipes into the trenches during the Somme offensive and at Vimy Ridge and Passchendaele. Beyond their musical role, many pipers and drummers served as stretcher bearers. Their non-combatant status, coupled with their bravery, made them invaluable in retrieving the wounded from the battlefield. The high casualty rate among pipers highlights their bravery and the critical role they played.
Pipers and drummers in WW 2
The role of pipers evolved in the Second World War due to modern, long-range weaponry. While they were still a powerful symbol of regimental identity and morale, their presence on the front lines was more restricted. However, they were still used to inspire troops in key moments. A famous example is Piper Bill Millin of the Commandos, who, on D-Day, defiantly played his pipes as he and his comrades landed on Sword Beach. Despite orders against using pipes in battle, Millin’s actions were a symbolic act of defiance and a powerful inspiration. The tradition continued in Canadian Highland regiments, like the 48th Highlanders, who maintained their pipe bands throughout the war, using music to connect soldiers to their heritage and to bolster their fighting spirit. As in the previous war, many pipers continued to serve in crucial support roles, often acting as stretcher bearers and medics when not playing their instruments, highlighting their versatility and commitment to their comrades.