Welcome To
The Brazos Crossing Pipe Band
Waco's Newest Bagpipe and Drum Band
The Brazos Crossing Pipe Band
Welcom to the Brazos Crossing Pipe Band, Waco’s newest bagpipe and drum band!
Proudly based in Waco, Texas, we are a newly formed pipe and drum ensemble of passionate players and learners dedicated to bringing the powerful, stirring sounds of the Great Highland Bagpipe and traditional drumming to Central Texas.
From vibrant parades and highland games to weddings, ceremonies, and community celebrations, we hope to blend authentic Scottish tradition and culture with energetic performances that engage audiences of all ages. Whether you’re a long time fan of the bagpipes or are discovering their magic for the first time, our band is excited to share this unique musical heritage right here in the Heart of Texas!
We’re just getting started and already making noise! Come join us, follow the journey, catch us at an upcomming event, or reach out if you’d like us to perform at your next gathering.
Seeking Players
Whether you are an experienced player, a new player, or a lover of the instrument who wants to learn how to play, all are welcome. We are a passionate group always on the lookout for new members to join our ranks. We provide supportive instruction, regular rehearsals, group comradery, and the chance to perform at parades, competitions, festivals, and community events. No prior experience is required- just enthusiasm, commitment, and a love of a tradition. Contact us today to learn more or to attend a rehersal.
Bagpipes
We’re always looking for new pipers to join and help fill out our ranks. Whether a complete beginner eager to learn the Great Highland Bagpipe, or an experienced player seeking a lively, fun, new group, we’d love for you to join us.
Snare Drum
All snare drummers are welcome – whether you play matched grip or traditional grip. No experience necessary; beginners and seasoned players alike are encouraged to join. Come be a part of the Drum Corps!
Tenor/ Bass Drum
Tenor drums are unique to Scottish pipe bands. The flash of the Drum Corps. Clean sounds with a bit of flair! No experience necessary; beginners and seasoned players alike are encouraged to join!
We are also still looking for a bass drum player! The heart of the Drumline and Pipe band! No experience necessary.
We wear the McLennan Modern Tartan
Why we wear the McLennan (MacLennan) Tartan
Neil McLennan represents the wave of Scottish and American pioneers who helped open central Texas to settlement in the 1830s-1840s. His leadership in bringing families to the area, securing land grants, and establishing early homesteads contributed to the development of the Waco, Brazos, and Bosque regions In recognition of his pioneering contributions, McLennan county was created by State Legislature in 1850 in his honor. The band wears the MacLennan Modern Tartan to honor his Scottish heritage, his foundational role in this region of Texas, and his pioneer spirit. As a descendant of Clan MacLennan from the Isle of Skye, this choice connects the band’s identity to the pioneering spirit and cultural roots of the man after whom the county is named. It is a fitting tribute that celebrates local history while embracing Scottish traditions through music and performance.
Who was Neil McLennan
Neil McLennan was born on the Isle of Skye in Scotland around 1777/1778. He immigrated to the U.S., in 1801. First to North Carolina and then to Florida. He sailed on a schooner fro Pensacola, FL along with his two brothers to Texas in 1835.
He was given land in a grant and settled near Rosebud in Falls County, now called McLennan’s Bluff. In 1837, he and his family were attacked by Native Indians. One of his two brothers, Laughlin, his wife, and mother were killed. His second brother, John, died the next year. In 1839 Neil joined George Erath (Erath County), a Texas Ranger and surveyor, to scout and survey the Bosque River area near Waco. He would move and settle his family in this area in 1845 and live there till his death in 1867, earning the title “Patriarch of the Bosque: for his role as a community leader and host to new settlers.
Purpose and Drive
Our Purpose
Building serious serious musicians through dedicated skill-building and high standards- while having fun,forging friendships, and growing together as a band.
Introduce Scottish-American Culture Through Music
We are here to introduce the Waco area to what pipe band is, what this culture is all about, and expand this culture throughout Central Texas.
Build a New Appreciation for Bagpipes and Pipe Band Music
We want to introduce the next generation to the sound of the Great Highland Bagpipe. We want to stir emotion and create new players. This is about a growing culture here in The States and the next wave of pipers and drummers to take up the call.
Waco, Texas has deep history. We're here to make more of it. Carrying the Scottish-American spirit forward in Central Texas!
Poppa Rollo's Pizza
Practice and Lessons
Our practice sessions are at Poppa Rollo’s Pizza (703 N. Valley Mills Dr.) Thursday nights in “The Outback”(the building in the back) 6:30-8pm (parking is in the back).
