Graham Kirkwood
I’ve been drumming for 30 plus years, (competitively for over 20), and I was brought up in the pipe band scene through my family. I was taught by my father, Jim Kirkwood, who immigrated to Canada with his brother, John Kirkwood, in the early 50’s when the Shotts drum corps came to Canada.
I’ve played with various Grade 1 bands (Clan Mac Farlane, 78th Frasers, Toronto Police, Peel Regional Police), and I’m currently the Lead Drummer with Niagara Regional Police (Grade 2). I instruct bands, solo competitors, and I also judge at various games and piping society events.
Although my father was my first and greatest influence in my drumming career, I’ve also had the privilege of competing in drum corps with highly talented individuals who have also had an affect on my musical ability… Douglas Kirkwood, Reid Maxwell, Drew Duthart, Tom Foote, Doug Stronach, Mike Hunter are some names that come to mind. In addition, my late brother, Lindsay Kirkwood, had a great influence in helping me understanding the piping aspect of tunes and the pipe band idiom.
I am a proud father of a budding 4 year old drummer, and my wife plays pipes in my Grade 2 competition band as well. I hope to one day play with my son in the same band….and if he’s running the corps that he doesn’t cut his old man!!!
