78th Fraser Highlanders Pipe Band Announces Drum Corps Leadership Transition and New Additions
Mark Passmore named Lead Drummer as Drew Duthart returns to the circle; Kyle Wardell departs to join Simon Fraser University
The 78th Fraser Highlanders Pipe Band today announced a change in its drum corps leadership. Lead Drummer Kyle Wardell has resigned to join Simon Fraser University, the 2026 World Pipe Band Champions.
The band is pleased to announce that Mark Passmore, formerly Lead Drummer of the Ottawa Highlanders Pipe Band, has accepted the position of Lead Drummer with the 78th. Several members of Mark’s corps are joining him.
An experienced lead drummer and educator, Mark brings previous leadership experience with Toronto Police, Glengarry and 400 Squadron, alongside six years as an instructor at the Canadian Armed Forces School of Music.
Legendary 78th drummer Drew Duthart, the band’s long-time Lead Drummer, will also rejoin the circle. Drew has fully recovered from this summer’s hip procedure and will play in Mark’s corps.
“I am genuinely delighted at the prospect of leading the 78th’s drum corps; I’ve always been a fan of Drew’s music and what he has built. There’s nothing but exciting times ahead!” said Mark Passmore.
A tighter pipe corps
A confluence of personal circumstances among some members, particularly in the pipe corps, has naturally resulted in a tighter, more closely knit unit. As has always been the case, the band welcomes enquiries from pipers and drummers interested in becoming members of the 78th Fraser Highlanders Pipe Band.
Practices on the move
The band will take a creative approach to rehearsals. Practice locations will move as required, so that the geography of members’ home locations is treated respectfully and fairly.
Looking ahead
Pipe Major Michael Grey welcomed the changes with a nod to the band’s heritage: “The band welcomes Mark and his expertise and enthusiasm; Mark's father, Gary, was a founding member of the 78th, so a full-circle sort of moment has happened." Grey added, "Bill Livingstone often reminded me what John MacFadyen, his great teacher and mentor would say about piping in general: when faced with challenges, ‘If it was easy, Bill, everybody would do it!’. I look forward to working with Mark and the band to continue to play good music well.”
The band’s pre-Worlds album, True North Strong, is slated for release in time for Christmas, on vinyl and digital!