The Pipes and Drums club is a unique and special part of the Gordon’s school legacy; it is a community full of creative and inspired pupils. From learning how to play a song on your bagpipe, to playing in front of the Royal Family – every choice and challenge can lead you to greatness.
The Gordon’s pupils got a once in a lifetime opportunity to play at Windsor Castle in front of the King as well as having the opportunity to talk with His Majesty and even took a photo together.
Windsor Castle holds General Gordon’s Bible, which was given to Queen Victoria by his sister, Augusta, in March 1885. The Bible, now on display in the castle, was given to General Gordon on the day of his birth by a relative of his mother and on the flyleaf are the names and dates of each of his postings. Students were able to see the Bible in the King’s Drawing Room in the State Apartments.
To celebrate the 140th anniversary of Gordon’s School, the pupils perform in different places relating to General Gordon. For example, Gravesend, where Gordon’s Garden is and Chatham, where a monument of General Gordon has been placed.
- Bella, Y7
A word from Mrs Scotson who leads our Pipes and Drums
“The Pipes and Drums is a long-standing tradition woven into the fabric of Gordon’s School.“
“The main role of the Band is to lead the School Parades, the most notable of which being down Whitehall in London; however, being in the Pipes and Drums opens up so many opportunities to you in your School career far beyond School Parades. The Band performs at many local, community events, but it has far bigger outreach than that.“
“In 2025, the Pipes and Drums marched down 6th Avenue as part of New York Tartan Day Parade and on a yearly basis the Band travels to Belgium to take part in the Last Post Association Remembrance Service – so there is lots of opportunity to travel.“
“For those who want to further develop skills and like the competitive edge, there is the chance to compete with the Band and go to Scotland to compete in the World Pipe Band Championships against many other youth bands from around the globe.“
“Apart from these opportunities, there is also the opportunity to collaborate with other organisations, individuals and artists, for example playing with the Bagrock band, ‘Skerrvore’, or performing in musical Tattoos and meeting other musicians from all around the world – these are but a few of the examples!“
“The Band’s biggest highlight to date will always be performing for King Charles III at Windsor Castle, but it is only Prince William and Princess Kate that the Pipes and Drums haven’t performed to for the full Royal collection!“
“Whether you play an instrument already or not, all students are welcome to join the Pipes and Drums. It’s a chance to be part of a unique community where age and ability go unnoticed, but the love of learning, sharing music, friendship and making inimitable memories is the at the heart of what we do.“