30 | VIPPensacola.com
Pipe ‘n
D
rums
L
isten closely, you can hear the thumping of the drums
and the faint whistling of pipes fl oating on the wind.
As you stand, eagerly anticipating, the sounds grow
louder as the band approaches. Marching along,
strong and proud, is The McGuire’s Irish Pub Pipe Band. This
year marks their 30th anniversary, celebrating three decades
of music and history. The band is comprised of 14 pipers, 7
drummers, a drum major, 5 emeritus, 2 associate and several
student musicians. The band’s uniform is unique in that it is
based on military attire; with spats to cover their boots, black
sweaters, military medals and horse hair sporrans. The kilts
that they wear are really special. After reviewing many tartans,
McGuire Martin chose an unusual green-dominant plaid that
was perfect for the band. The tartan of McDonald, Lord of the
Isle, is a nod to the beautiful gulf coast with its bold emerald
green color.
Molly and McGuire Martin created their restaurants with
unique and rich traditions. These elements help to identify
the McGuire’s brand, which carries over into the Pub Pipe
Band. Molly was the band’s biggest supporter and the band
added a small, embroidered memorial patch to the uniform
to always keep her memory with the band. The longevity of a
non-institution sponsored bagpipe band is very rare. McGuire’s
Irish Pub Pipe Band is also special in their broad diversity
in background and age. The band has a strong contingent
of Veteran and retired U.S. military personnel and a wide
occupational diversity. The youngest member is only 14 while
the eldest is 84. The younger pipers and drummers work to
ensure that the traditions of the band will continue on for the
enjoyment of generations to come.
story by
Courtney Murray
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photos provided by
McGuires Irish Pub
30-31 AdventureOut - McGuire's Irish Pub Pipe Band.indd 1
2/25/18 11:18 AM