Honouring History: BC Pipers and Drummers, Commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the Liberation of the Netherlands

This spring, approximately 80 pipers, drummers, and dancers from across British Columbia’s Interior and Vancouver Island will embark on a remarkable journey to the Netherlands. Their mission? To pay tribute to the Canadian Armed Forces and commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the liberation of the Netherlands from four years of Nazi occupation. Originally planned for 2020 to mark the 75th anniversary, this pilgrimage was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, after years of anticipation and preparation, these musicians will finally take their place in history, performing at key ceremonies and parades between April 24th -May 9th.

A Journey of Remembrance and Tribute

Under the leadership and organization of the Kelowna Pipe Band Society, led by Pipe Major Chad Goodman, Band Manager/Tenor Drummer Miriam Campbell, and Treasurer Carrie Whittla, the group will be performing at significant historical sites and events:

* April 28th : A powerful tribute at Vimy Ridge, the site of one of Canada’s most celebrated military victories, honouring those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in France during World War I.

* May 2nd : A solemn performance at Groesbeek Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery, where thousands of Canadian soldiers from World War II are laid to rest.

* May 4th : Remembrance of the Dead ceremony (“Dodenherdenking” in Dutch) is held annually on May 4 in Veendam. It commemorates all civilians and members of the armed forces of the Kingdom of the Netherlands who have died in wars or peacekeeping missions since the beginning of the Second World War.

* May 5th (Liberation Day): Leading parades in Groningen, Appingedam, and Delfzijl, celebrating the Dutch people’s freedom.

* Additional performances in Veenendaal (King’s Day), Huissen (Castle Bemmel & Marker Square), Diever, Mill, Delft, and more.

This commemorative trip is important in so many ways to so many people. Pipe Sergeant Leila Cooper of the Kimberley Pipe Band captures a common sentiment of many of the participants, “My father served in WWll and my father-in-law was captured at Caan and held in a POW camp in Germany, so this trip is very close to my heart. I’m both excited and honoured to be participating in these significant ceremonies and celebrations. Myself and some of my band mates will be loaded down with Canadian Maple leaf pins to give away. I’m sure this incredible journey will be full of emotion for all of us.”

A United Effort
This once-in-a-lifetime journey brings together bands from Kelowna, Kamloops, Kimberley, Kalamalka, Shuswap, Trail, Grand Forks, Prince George, Quesnel, Mount Arrowsmith and Victoria. Over the past year, members have dedicated countless hours to rehearsals, ensuring their music resonates with the importance of the occasion.

Beyond the music, extensive fundraising efforts — ranging from grant applications, ceilidhs and coffee sales to hockey pools — helped offset travel costs. Generous support from organizations such as the local branches of the Royal Canadian Legion, the Army Navy & Air Force Veterans in Canada and various community groups have made this historic trip possible.

As the pipers and drummers step onto Dutch soil, they will not only represent their Canadian-Scottish musical heritage but also honour the brave Canadian soldiers who fought for freedom. Their journey is more than a series of performances—it’s a heartfelt tribute to history, sacrifice, and enduring friendship between Canada and the Netherlands.

As so aptly stated by Pipe Major Chad Goodman, “The Kelowna Pipe Band, along with our friends from other pipe bands in British Columbia, are very excited to share our passion and culture with the Dutch people. We are so honoured to be able to celebrate the sacrifice of so many in order to achieve the freedom of the Netherlands.”

Article submitted by Andrew Moore, Pipe Sergeant of the Kelowna Pipe Band

The British Columbia Pipers’ Association sends our very best wishes to all the musicians from across the Province who are participating, performing, & those supporting them on this monumental journey.

“Let the international language of music be what unites us!”

Keeping Tradition Alive: Nelson, BC, Hosts a Special Edition of the Annual Pipe & Drum Spring Fling
While many pipers, drummers, and dancers from BC’s Interior take part in historic commemorations in the Netherlands this May, those remaining closer to home will keep the music alive in Nelson, BC. On May 2nd and 3rd, members of several Interior pipe bands will gather for the annual Spring Fling event — a beloved tradition dating back to 1979. More information to follow, stay tuned!