Pipers to perform again at Kroc Center

Albeni Falls Pipes and Drums of North Idaho will return to Coeur d'Alene on May 4 for "Piping for Princes 2." The performance will be held from 3-5:20 p.m. at the Salvation Army Kroc Center in Coeur d'Alene.

The show, a benefit for the organization, will improve on the group's February performance at the Kroc Center and will include some new acts. The family show will feature Great Highland bagpipes, Scottish side drums, flourishing tenors, small pipes, singing, dancing, clogging and general light humor.

Ticket prices are $12 for children younger than 12 or seniors 60 or older, and $15 for all others. There is only one show and seating is limited. Tickets are available through the Kroc Center, 1765 W. Golf Course Road. They can be purchased online at www.kroccda.org or by calling (208) 763-0665.

Albeni Falls Pipes and Drums of North Idaho is a group of people with a common love for Celtic heritage. Most members are true descendants of a specific lineage in Scotland and it is this heritage that spurs them on to learning piping, drumming and dancing.

The band was founded in 2000 by two employees of Albeni Falls Dam on the Pend Oreille River near Oldtown, Wash.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the organization has provided free lessons each week and helped many lovers of piping, drumming and Highland dancing take their first steps.

During the summer, the band performs in local parades in Idaho, Washington and Montana, in an effort to promote interest in its passion. As the group has grown, it has become impossible to find matching uniforms for its 30 playing members.

Proceeds will help pay for new "Prince Charlie" jackets and vests, part of the traditional Scottish piper's uniform. The purchase of black formal uniforms will allow the band to pay honor and respect to those who have served our country by dressing appropriately for the many memorials and funerals at which it is asked to play.