Big Orange Business

Haley Jones

Knoxville and East Tennessee business podcast.

  1. 6D AGO

    114 - The Hidden Music Culture in Knoxville You Didn’t Know About (Bagpipes & Drums)

    In this episode of the Big Orange Business Podcast, Haley Jones sits down with the team behind Knoxville Pipes and Drums—a group that most people in East Tennessee have heard… but few actually know the story behind. What started with just a few people learning bagpipes around a kitchen table in 1992 has grown into a 50+ member organization representing Knoxville across the region—and now, on a global stage. 👉 Learn more, book the band, or get involved: https://www.knoxvillepipesanddrums.org/ But this episode goes way beyond music. You’ll learn how Scottish and Irish heritage shaped East Tennessee, how bagpipes influenced modern country and bluegrass, and why this group is so deeply connected to the local community. From performing at weddings and funerals to competing internationally in Scotland, Knoxville Pipes and Drums is preserving history in a way that’s both powerful and unexpected. Whether you’re local to Knoxville, thinking about relocating, or just curious about the culture behind the music, this episode will give you a whole new perspective on East Tennessee. 🎯 Topics include: • The surprising history of bagpipes and how they work• The deep Scottish influence on Appalachian culture• Why bagpipes were once considered a weapon of war• How Knoxville Pipes and Drums grew from 4 people to 50+ members• What it takes to learn and play this instrument• How the group is preparing to compete in Scotland• Why this band is more than music—it’s a community 🎵 Get Involved with Knoxville Pipes & Drums 🔗 Website: https://www.knoxvillepipesanddrums.org/ 👉 Interested in learning?They offer FREE lessons for bagpipes and drums—no experience required. 👉 Want to book them for an event?They perform at weddings, funerals, parades, festivals, and local events across East Tennessee. 👉 Business owner or organization?They are actively looking for local sponsors and community partners to support their mission and upcoming international competition in Scotland. 👉 Just curious?You can attend an open rehearsal and see the band in action. This isn’t just about music. It’s about preserving culture, building community, and creating something that lasts for generations right here in East Tennessee. If you’ve ever wondered what makes Knoxville unique—this is part of the story. 👉 Follow Big Orange Business for more stories about the people, businesses, and culture shaping Knoxville.

    40 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Knoxville and East Tennessee business podcast.