The Victoria Police Pipe Band is a world-renowned pipe band from Melbourne, Australia, known for its exceptional skill and innovative approach to traditional Scottish bagpipe music. Founded in 1936, the band was originally created as a part of the Victoria Police Force, serving as a ceremonial unit at official events while also fostering community engagement. Throughout its existence, the band's stature grew, bolstered by its exceptional musicians who were both police officers and accomplished pipers and drummers.

In the 1990s, under the leadership of Pipe Major Nat Russell, the Victoria Police Pipe Band reached the zenith of its competitive career, culminating in their historic win at the World Pipe Band Championships held in Glasgow in 1998. This victory was a significant achievement that brought the band international acclaim, given that it was the first non-Scottish band to win the title at that time. The band's arresting performances, captured in albums such as "Live in Concert in Ireland," showcase the group's visceral energy and technical prowess. "Masterblasters" and "Uphold The Right" further cement the band's reputation, featuring a repertoire that mixes traditional pipe band music with contemporary arrangements, reflecting the band’s dedication to both heritage and progression in its art form. Even though the competitive and performing elements of the band were disbanded in the early 2000s due to funding reallocations within the Victoria Police, the legacy of their music continues to inspire pipers and drummers worldwide.

Genres

Bagpipe

Police Band

Latest Release

Live in Concert in Ireland

The Victoria Police Pipe Band

Album - 16 Tracks - Released January 19, 2001