The bagpipes are humming

Real Steinbrunners simply don’t pipe anything!

The masterful Irish piper Margret Houlihan gave the Steinbrunn Pipe Major Thomas Torda valuable tips to ensure the band's success in Germany.(Bild: zVg)

The Caledonian Pipes and Drums Burgenland got professional help from Ireland and Scotland to perfect their bagpipe playing.

The Caledonian Pipes and Drums Burgenland, also known as the Storks, are constantly striving to improve their musical level. Every year, they have around 40 gigs on the program. "We are a hobby band," says bandleader and mastermind Thomas Torda, who talks about an "unforgettable experience". Last year, star violinist Andre Rieu incorporated the sounds of the Burgenländer's bagpipes and drums into his two sold-out performances in Vienna's Stadthalle.

The goal is the World Championships
The musicians are now focusing on new goals - at the beginning of May, they will be competing in a so-called Gathering in Peine, Germany, a musical competition in which they can qualify for the 2025 World Championships in Scotland. "Only the crème de la crème are allowed to compete there," says Pipe Major Torda.

The Burgenland band in all its glory(Bild: zVg)

A workshop was held to ensure optimal preparation. "It is important to deliver an impeccable performance in many respects. Almost everything is judged - synchronization when marching, the visual impression and, of course, a very solid musical performance." The Northern Burgenland band spared neither expense nor effort. Margret Houlihan, piping instructor at the National Piping Center in Scotland, traveled from Ireland to give the pipers important tips and suggestions for improvement. Gus Sicard, drummer with the Inverary and District Pipe Band and two-time world champion, was responsible for the progress of the drum corps.

Who would like to come?
The Caledonian Pipes and Drums Burgenland rehearse every Monday at 7 pm in the Steinbrunn Community Center - fans are just as welcome as amateurs who would like to learn how to play the bagpipes or drums.