The Ontario Fire Service Pipes and Drums is a volunteer pipe band dedicated to supporting fire departments across Ontario. The band performs at a variety of events, including civic ceremonies, parades, and line-of-duty funerals, where we honour fallen firefighters with tradition and music.
As a non-competing band, we focus on ceremonial performances, taking part in significant events like the Firefighter Memorial and the Firefighters Memorial Ceremony. Additionally, we engage in community celebrations such as local graduations and Scottish festivals, further strengthening our ties to the local community and fire service tradition.
A Bit About Us….
Founded in 1997, the OFSPD has become a symbol of pride, unity, and professionalism within Ontario’s fire service community. With stirring performances that honour both the past and present, the band brings a unique and unforgettable presence to ceremonies, parades, and public events across the province — and around the world.
Whether performing at solemn memorials, energizing community festivals, or competing on the international stage, the OFSPD delivers more than music — it delivers meaning. Our mostly civilian members are passionate about their craft, dedicated to continuous improvement, and proud to represent the fire service through the power and the tradition of pipes and drums.
While we operate under the support of the Ontario Fire Marshall, this website is not OFM official.
Mission Statement
At the Ontario Fire Service Pipes and Drums, our mission is to honour the legacy, courage, and dedication of Ontario’s Fire Service through the powerful traditions of pipe band music. We strive to serve with pride, perform with excellence, and foster camaraderie among our members, while preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of both the Fire Service and the Scottish musical tradition.
The Ontario Fire Service Pipes and Drums (OFSPD) was formed in 1997 to support and perform at fire service functions throughout Ontario. Under the leadership of Fred MacLennan, then
Principal of the Ontario Fire College in Gravenhurst, the band quickly established itself as a proud representative of the Fire Service. Lorne McNiece served as the band’s liaison officer, and early practices and workshops were held at the Fire College. In tribute to the College’s founder, William B. Scott, the band adopted the Scott tartan—a symbol of tradition and respect.
The band's first Pipe Major was Dave Brown, supported by Gavin Brice as Pipe Sergeant. In 1999, Mike Authier took over as Pipe Major, followed by Gary Ford in 2001, who led the band with distinction for over two decades until Luke Cuppage assumed the role in 2023.
Bill McWhinnie served as the band’s manager from 2001 to 2003, eventually passing the role to Tom Newstead, who became one of the band’s longest-serving managers until 2025. McWhinnie was also the bass drummer from 2001-2004 and moved to Drum Major in 2003. The band’s musical leadership was further strengthened in 2003 with the appointment of Pat Reid as Musical Director adding to the already appointed Dan Bist who had been offering leadership as Drum Sergeant since 2001.
Over the years, the OFSPD has built a strong reputation across Ontario and beyond competing in Highland games. Highlights include first-place finishes at the Orillia Scottish Festival, first place in grade 5 at the Toronto Indoors and the Grade 5 title at the Antigonish Highland Games in 2015. In 2018, the band proudly represented Ontario at the World Pipe Band Championships in Glasgow. Other memorable performances include participation in the 65th Anniversary of the Liberation of Holland in 2010, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Delray Beach, Florida, in 2012, and The Hamilton International Military Tattoo, honouring Fire and Emergency Services.
Today, the Ontario Fire Service Pipes and Drums remains a proud and active part of the fire service community, continuing to perform at annual events across the province including the Canadian Firefighters Memorial Ceremony each September in Ottawa. With a focus on musical excellence and camaraderie, the band now holds its practices at the Hawkestone Community Hall. We honour the contributions of all past members and leaders, and we are pleased to welcome Angela Soule as our current Band Manager and Dene Conlon as Treasurer.
