From all of the Troys...

Ghosts of the Past...

The picture below is a gem.

Taken in Victoria in the early 1970s, the pipers are Hal Senyk and Rich Collett, both playing with the Canadian Scottish Regiment at the time. Behind them, is Pierre Elliott Trudeau and his wife, Margaret marching up to the legislature.

Both Hal and Rich are still part of the bagpiping community today. Hal, a lawyer in Vancouver, is heavily involved with the White Spot Pipe Band as an instructor and mentor. His intense knowledge and musicality is being passed down to these kids that are working hard and reaping the benefits. His daughter, Fiona is a fabulous drummer who is a musical force to be reckoned with. Her teacher, Kyla MacNeil Richdale is a dear friend of mine and has done an outstanding job of nurturing her into a fine young player.

Rich Collett is a mainstay at the Vancouver Island Pipers Club, proudly supporting the Club, the local talent and helping out whenever he and his wife, Lorraine can. He has recently confessed that he must dust off his pipes and has agreed to be part of the May Pipers Club which will feature some of the 'founding' members! It is amazing to have those that were there at the start (1968) still in attendance and recognizing the importance of such an organization.

-JLT