Nelson Mandela Artillery Pipes & Drums

What makes this band truly remarkable is the diverse makeup of its members, who hail from all walks of life. Among them, you’ll find students embarking on their musical journey, seasoned pensioners, respected banking officials, a passionate travel agent, influential figures from various big businesses, and even a skilled winemaker. Together, they form an eclectic ensemble that brings a dynamic energy to their performances.

Under the expert leadership of Pipe Major Scheffel and Drum Major Bill White, the Nelson Mandela Artillery Pipes & Drums has flourished into a formidable force. With a strong core of 20 dedicated members and a vibrant group of learners rapidly ascending through the ranks, their practices resonate within the historic walls of the Castle of Good Hope.

Whether they take the stage for a captivating concert or march in splendid formation on parade, the Nelson Mandela Artillery Pipes & Drums proudly represents the spirit of the Cape Town Pipe Band Fraternity. Their captivating melodies and commanding presence make them an ideal choice for any event or function.

The Royal Stewart tartan, the most renowned tartan associated with the esteemed royal House of Stewart. Notably, this tartan holds the distinction of being the personal tartan of none other than Queen Elizabeth II. Traditionally, wearing this tartan required explicit permission from the Queen, emphasizing its exclusivity.

However, the Scottish Register of Tartans observes that in practice, due to its popularity, it has become a universal tartan, which can be worn by anyone who doesn’t have their own clan tartan.

In 1952 when Corporal Piper Ken Langlands, representing the band boldly applied for permission to wear the Royal Stewart tartan. Miraculously, his request was granted, thereby bestowing upon the band the honor of adorning this cherished tartan.

As you traverse various events and occasions, you may come across individuals proudly displaying their kilts in the Royal Stewart tartan. Weddings, significant ceremonies, and solemn funerals often witness the resplendent presence of this iconic tartan, symbolizing the intertwining of tradition and timeless elegance.

The Nelson Mandela Artillery Pipe Band, an esteemed musical institution based in Cape Town, South Africa. The band’s roots can be traced back to 1952 when Corporal Piper Ken Langlands, driven by his passion for the bagpipes, established the Cape Town Stewarts School of Piping.

In 1973, as the band’s lease for their practice venue in Woodstock was approaching expiration, Ken Langlands embarked on a quest to secure an alternative location. It was during this search that he approached the Cape Field Artillery Band, led by the Officer Commanding Lt-Col Lionel Crook, a devoted admirer of the bagpipes. After extensive discussions and negotiations, an agreement was reached: the Nelson Mandela Artillery Pipe Band would be granted the use of the facilities in exchange for performances as the Cape Field Artillery when required. This marked a significant milestone as the band officially gained military recognition.

Under the capable leadership of its 5th Pipe-Major, Grant Scheffel, the band is currently celebrating its 40th year of existence. With Pipe-Major Scheffel at the helm, the band is venturing into new dimensions, evolving and expanding its musical horizons. Guiding the band onto parade grounds is Drum-Major Bill White, whose commanding presence adds an extra touch of grandeur to their performances.

Throughout its illustrious history, the Nelson Mandela Artillery Pipe Band has had the privilege of sharing the parade grounds and concert platforms with esteemed musical ensembles like the internationally acclaimed SA Navy Band. They also frequently collaborate with the SA Army Band Cape Town, showcasing their remarkable talents and fostering a sense of camaraderie within the musical community. Their captivating melodies have graced festivals, weddings, funerals, and special occasions, leaving an indelible mark on each event they attend.

In August 2019, a significant transformation occurred as the regiment’s name was officially changed to the Nelson Mandela Artillery Regiment in alignment with the directives of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF). Reflecting this change, the band was likewise renamed, forever carrying the distinguished title of the Nelson Mandela Artillery.