As we prepare for the 2025 season, Wake and District Pipe Band is entering a new chapter in our musical journey. This past year has brought about significant changes in leadership, with many passionate individuals eager to contribute their ideas and energy to the band. While these transitions have introduced a variety of approaches and styles, they’ve also presented challenges, particularly around cohesion and direction. It’s easy for a group as diverse and enthusiastic as ours to feel pulled in multiple directions at once, but we’re now ready to refocus and move forward with renewed clarity.
We’ve come through many storms in 2023 and 2024—challenges that tested our resolve and unity. But now, in the wake of those storms, we find ourselves in a fresh place, ready to rebegin with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment. The trials we faced have only strengthened our bond and set the stage for us to move forward together.
We would like to express our incredible gratitude to Kelsey Barry, who stepped up to lead the Grade 3 band after personnel changes early this year. Kelsey’s leadership during this crucial time set the foundation for the group to move forward in harmony. Her dedication and guidance were instrumental in helping the Grade 3 band navigate those transitions and emerge stronger as a unit.
Moving forward, we are excited to announce that Ken McKeveny will continue to lead as Pipe Major for the Grade 3 band. Alongside him, Neil Seivwright will serve as Lead Tip, providing leadership as the band prepares to roll-out fresh MSR and Medley music. This group has an exciting repertoire ahead of them, and under their steady guidance, we’re confident they’ll take the Grade 3 band to new heights.
For our Grade 4 band, Pipe Major Paul Landers and Lead Tip Fisher Reese remain at the helm. The Grade 4 recently introduced a brand-new MSR, and their commitment to fostering strong musicianship and camaraderie continues to drive the band forward. With their leadership, the Grade 4 band remains a vital part of the growth of our organization.
One of the most significant changes is the transition of founding member Joe Brady, who will be stepping down as Pipe Major of the big band. Joe has served the role with dedication and leadership, and while he’s passing the torch in this position, we’re fortunate he will continue as Band Manager. Joe’s organizational expertise and deep connection to the band will remain a driving force for Wake and District as we grow and evolve.
Stepping into the role and setting the tone of all things musical for our organization will be Adrian Melvin. Adrian brings an extraordinary wealth of knowledge and experience, and we’re thrilled to have him take the lead on collaborating, teaching, and managing musical direction across all bands. Not only will Adrian unify our musical vision, but he will also keep us grounded in one of our core missions: performing for our fallen with dignity and solemnity. As a band, honoring those who have served and sacrifice remains at the heart of what we do; with Adrian's background in police service he will ensure we stay true to that purpose.
Finally, we’re grateful for the continued support and leadership of our Board of Directors: Lindsey Kosydar, John Schodtler, Katie Hope, and Jacob Egen. Together, this team is committed to guiding our organization toward a successful and harmonious future.
We look forward to the 2025 season and beyond, confident in our leadership, music, and the strength of our community. Let’s continue to raise the standard, move together, and make the music that unites us all.
Wake and District— we're marchin on!
"Marchin On" (Wake and District Version)
For those who stand, for those who lead,
We gather strength in times of need,
Through the highs and the lows, the beat never slows
,We’re marching on, we’re marching on.
We raise our pipes, the drums will roll,
In every tune, we find our soul,
For the ones we honor, we’ll never falter,
We’re marching on, we’re marching on.
And though the road might be hard, we won’t break apart,
Every step, every note, we give with all our heart,
In the face of the storm, we’ll carry the sound,
With pride in our purpose, we’re bound.
(Chorus)
When the night is dark, and hope is gone,
With the rising sun, we’re marching on,
Side by side, our spirits strong,
We’re marching on, we’re marching on.
From the fields of green to the streets of gold,
In every journey, our story’s told,
With every tune that echoes through,
We honor the fallen, their duty true.
And though the weight is heavy, we’ll never bow,
With courage in our hearts, we take our vow,
To serve with dignity, to play with grace,
For the ones who’ve gone, we’ll hold their place.
(Chorus)
When the night is dark, and hope is gone,
With the rising sun, we’re marching on,
Side by side, our spirits strong,
We’re marching on, we’re marching on.
(Bridge)
No matter the trials, no matter the cost,
We’ll find our way, we’ll never be lost,
In unity, we lift our song,
We’re marching on, we’re marching on.
(Chorus)
When the night is dark, and hope is gone,
With the rising sun, we’re marching on,
Side by side, our spirits strong,
We’re marching on, we’re marching on.
For the love of the band, the love of the tune,
We play on forever, beneath the moon,
With every breath, with every beat,
We’re marching on, we won’t retreat.
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