The Birmingham Society of Piping maintains as its primary focus the development of artistic excellence. Drawing on the best of traditional and modern influences, we offer professional instruction in piping and drumming in a fun setting to let the musician in you emerge.

Jim MacRae and Kevin Barrett provide leadership and instruction for current members and students.

Jim MacRae began piping at Carnegie Tech in 1961, and has been active in piping bands ever since. Jim played for 3 years with the Grove City Highland Band in Grove City, PA. In 1965, he moved to Chicago area and played 1 year with the Chicago Stockyard Band, and formed the Gary Kilty Band in Gary, Indiana. This band went to CNE (The Toronto World Scottish Festival) in 1972. In 1975, Jim and Terry McHugh co-founded the Invermich Gaelic Society, which later became the University of Chicago Pipe Band. The Invermich Gaelic Society Pipe Band moved from Grade 4 in 1981 to Grade 2 in 1989. The Band returned to Grade 3 in 1990 and remained at that level through their last competitive season in 2000. In 1977, Jim formed the ORAK (Shrine) Pipe Band. The ORAK Pipe Band was the MWPBA, Grade 5 champion supreme in 1985 and 1986. As a solo player, Jim has progressed to competition at the Grade 1 level. In March, 2001, Jim relocated to Birmingham area, and has been a player and instructor for The Birmingham Society of Piping since then. Jim has written and published "The MacRae Tutor for the Great Highland Bagpipe," and is currently working of a collection of tunes to be published in the near future.

Kevin Barrett began his percussion studies in 1965. Starting originally as a jazz drummer, his interests quickly expanded to a wide range of musical styles. He has performed and recorded with a variety of musical organizations, including the St. Louis Symphony. From 1978 to 1992 he held the position of Assistant Principal Percussion with the Alabama Symphony. During this period he performed throughout the Southeast, as well as at Kennedy Center. In 1991 Kevin was a featured soloist in the world premiere recording of Russell Peck’s percussion concerto, The Glory and the Grandeur. In addition to a varied playing career, Kevin also has extensive teaching experience. He has instructed students ranging from beginners to college level. He holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Southern Illinois University and has completed additional graduate level music studies. In 2002 Kevin joined the Birmingham Pipes and Drums and currently serves as lead drummer.