At Wake and District Pipe Band, we are proud to celebrate our members' achievements on and off the field, and today we want to highlight one of our most remarkable leaders—our Grade 3 lead tip, Kelsey Barry.
Kelsey, a traveling member of our band, has stepped into her leadership role with grace and strength during a time of significant change. With personnel shifts in our drum corps, she not only stepped in but stepped up, guiding our band to success. Most recently, her leadership helped us secure a victory at the Scotland County Highland Games—a true testament to her skill and dedication.
But Kelsey’s journey is about more than just musical talent. She’s the only woman we know currently leading a Grade 3 drum corps within the Eastern United States Pipe Band Association (EUSPBA). In a male-dominated space, Kelsey is a trailblazer, showing what it means to lead with heart and determination. She leads by example, embodying passion, commitment, and compassion in everything she does—from drumming to being a positive force within the band.
And if all that wasn’t enough, Kelsey is also an incredible mom. Balancing the demands of being a lead drummer with the challenges of motherhood isn’t easy, but Kelsey makes it look effortless. Her love for her family and her ability to nurture both her children and her musical family is truly inspiring. She brings that same care and compassion to everything she does, and it’s one of the many reasons we’re so proud to have her as part of Wake and District.
Kelsey’s leadership reminds us all that being a woman in a male-dominated ensemble is not just about holding your own—it’s about making an impact. She’s not just marking time; she’s pushing boundaries, creating space for others, and showing that true leadership comes from passion, love, and perseverance. We’re better with her, and our band is stronger because of her presence.
Looking ahead, we’re especially excited about our upcoming concert, All Through the Night, on Saturday, January 25, 2025, in Clayton, North Carolina, where Kelsey will be leading an all-female ensemble, the Women of Wake. This performance will celebrate women in pipe bands, and we can’t wait to see Kelsey shine as she continues to set an example for us all.
Solo On Snare is a short documentary about Kelsey French. Kelsey is a top ranked drum sergeant of a small-town bagpipe band (Jamestown Pipes & Drums). After finding a passion and family within the tight-knit group, she will go on to compete in a highland games which will help determine whether she reaches the highest rank possible -- Professional. Created by: Will Anderson, Hannah Cohan and David Gwynn
Kelsey Barry is a phenomenal drummer, a trailblazing leader, and an awesome mom. She brings her full self to everything she does, from the pipe band to her family life, and we are beyond lucky to have her with us. Join us in celebrating her at All Through the Night—a night that will showcase not only her incredible talent but her leadership, resilience, and unwavering love for the music.
We couldn’t be more proud to walk this journey with you, Kelsey!
Join us in Clayton, North Carolina, on January 25, 2025, as we celebrate alongside this incredible musician, leader, and trailblazer. We’re better with Kelsey—and so is the future of our band. Information here.
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