Show marks band’s 25th anniversary

To celebrate its 25th anniversary, the Beinn Gorm Highlanders Pipes and Drums band will be performing at a free outdoor concert at the Collingwood Museum grounds.

The concert coincides with a special museum exhibit open now until August 23 that explores the band’s origins, its deep commitment and lasting contributions to the community, and the vital role its members play in local events and celebrations.

The band was founded by Sheila Stewart and Garth Wilson in 1999. They were motivated to bring an enhanced level of ceremony to the Collingwood Remembrance Day services fulled by a desire to see veterans march on while accompanied by a live band.

The new band chose the name Beinn Gorm, meaning Blue Mountain in Gaelic. As early as 1832 the yet unformed local townships of Sunnidale, Nottawasaga, Osprey and Collingwood were known as The Blue Mountain Country, which is home to band members. Its tartan, The MacDonald of the Isles (Modern Hunting) plaid, was selected for its dominant blue stripe.

The exhibit is part of the museum’s community collectors series, populated with items on loan from residents, organizations, and businesses. The display includes the band’s original and current uniforms, instruments, awards, and photographs. A special slideshow, created with images contributed by band members, includes memorable moments from events like the Copper Kettle Festival.

The free outdoor concert will be at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, July 22. Spectators are encouraged to bring a chair.