Stirring, Powerful, Traditional
These words best describe the amazing music performed by the Kansas City Celtic Pipes & Drums. We are an all-volunteer, non-profit group committed to promoting the traditional bagpipe music of Scotland and Ireland. Our kilt tartan is Armstrong.
We've performed at regional events since 2005, though many of our performers have been playing bagpipe music for over 30 years. We are led by Pipe Major, Kevin Gilstrap, Drum Section Director, Kenn Blurton and Pipe Sergeant, Steve Kidwell.
Kevin Gilstrap, Pipe-Major
Musical Director
Kevin is the band’s primary music director. He began performing on bagpipes at the age of thirteen and teaching bagpipes at sixteen. He has competed at the highest levels of competitions on both sides of the Atlantic. For information on learning bagpipes or performances either solo or full band, please contact at 913-485-5892 or email kevin.gilstrap@t-mobile.com
Kenn Blurton, Drum Section Director
Kenn has played percussion for over forty years including jazz, rock, afro-cuban, and theater genres. Always intrigued by the Scottish snare, Kenn joined the pipe band in 2006 and now leads the drum section. Kenn is very proud that his daughter, Jillian, is an accomplished tenor drummer in the pipe band.
Steve Kidwell, Pipe Sergeant
Band Manager
Steve has been playing bagpipes for over twenty years. He has competed in solo and band competitions and enjoys teaching. Steve also organizes the band performances and outreach. When not playing with the band, he finds great reward in playing smallpipes at the Kansas City Hospice House on alternating Sunday mornings.