Red Hackle Pipe Band is one of the first Scottish pipe bands in Belgium. It was established in 1967, his roots were to be found in the lap of the St. George Scouts Pipe Band, a boy scout movement. The founder was Paul Morreel.
In 1972 it performed for the first time under its current name and in the uniform of the famous Black Watch regiment of Scotland, with permission of the 42nd regiment at Perth. The "Red Hackle" is the red feather on the feather bonnet and was taken over, after getting the approval, from the legendary "Red Hackle Pipes & Drums" from Glasgow. That same year, the band became a member of the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association at Scotland.
Education was assured by Scottish instructors that came over regularly on request. This to match as closely as possible the original spirit, autheticity and quality of the music. Through discipline and perseverance this goal was achieved. The band reached very high results on world contests at Kerkrade in 1981, 1985 and 1989 and in two-yearly marching & discipline contests at Hamont. Taking part in contests at Scotland and Holland with variable success, and innumerable performances in the own country and around make from this band a much sought-after guest. The band often shows up at memorials, tattoos, parades, concerts and all kind of festivities. Also smaller performances of a few players on ceremonies, marriages, receptions, even funerals, make part of the activities.
In 1981, the band launched its first LP, named "Our taste in Piping", followed by a second one in 1984 : "Sounds of Red Hackle". In 1992, for the occasion of its 25 years of existence, a CD came out, called "Silver", followed by a second CD in 1997 : "Red Hackle in Concert". Only the latter is still for sale.
The band continuously works on maintaining its quality and presentation and can currently rely on its own training of pipers, drummers and dancers. They practise twice a week. It takes about two years before one can make his or her first appearance. Obviously we are continuously recruiting people. Anyone interested can always contact us through our website or contact our secretary for more information.