Today we’d like to introduce you to Dan Tesch.
Dan, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
The Chicago Highlanders are one of the oldest pipe and drum bands in the United States, we were founded in 1921. The Highlanders can be seen in local parades on St. Pat’s Day, Memorial Day, The Fourth of July, etc. and have performed at The United Center, Arlington Race Track, university commencement ceremonies, various fundraisers and charity events, golf outings, weddings and funerals. As a member of the Midwest Pipe Band Association, The Highlanders can also be seen competing at a number Highland Games in the Great Lakes area… one of the largest games is held in Itasca every June! The band wears the Royal Stewart tartan and in 1959, was invited to play for Queen Elizabeth II at Navy Pier when she came to Chicago after the St. Lawrence river was opened to ocean traffic.
The Highlanders are a teaching band and offer free lessons on pipes and drums to individuals interested in joining the band.
When I was a kid, my father was a bagpiper and I actually took a few lessons but it didn’t stick. My Dad gave it up after a few years but then started again after retiring; this was my inspiration to take it up. I’ve been in The Highlanders since 2013 and was a student for about two years prior. I really enjoy the music and the challenge of learning something new later in life but the hidden gem for me was finding a new group of friends that share something fun in common.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The bagpipe is a difficult instrument to master. The Great Highland Bagpipes have four reeds; one in each drone, which are the tubes which lay over the shoulder and one in the ‘chanter’ which is where the melody is played. In addition to needing to keep the air pressure consistent under your arm, the reeds can be temperamental and can be effected by temperature and humidity and moisture from your breath. As if just playing them well isn’t enough, you must learn to march while playing. I never learned to read music when I was younger so in addition to the mechanics, I needed to learn a new language with many nuances.
Chicago Highlanders Pipes and Drums – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
The Highlanders were founded in 1921 so we’re approaching 100 years. In my short time with the band I’ve seen many folks come and go for different reasons: moving away for a job, getting too old, time pressures of raising a family, etc. I feel a very strong need to contribute as much as I can, while I can, to continue the tradition. I’m looking forward to being a Highlander for our 100 year celebration!
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
I like to play with my Father when we get together on holidays and I have a young nephew who has taken an interest in drumming… he’s recently joined us playing his drum while my Father and I play pipes. There are many fond memories though, I’ve played at 911 events and at a funeral for a first responder, and those types of events are a great honor.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://chicagohighlanders.org
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Chicago-Highlanders-Pipes-and-Drums-200535787841/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChiHighlanders
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/chicago-highlanders-pipes-and-drums-palatine
- Other: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAltR_hMta5kp0t6OEaMyzA
