Charlotte's Irish Pipe and Drum Band

Ceol an Gael is an award-winning 501(c)(3) educational organization, based in Charlotte, NC.  We provide entertainment and cultural learning experiences through our many appearances around the Carolinas and the Southern United States.  More importantly, we are a group of friends who share a passion for music and all things Celtic.  If you would like to hire a piper (or the entire band!) for your next event, visit our "Contact Us" page.

Drummers and Pipers Wanted

We are always looking for new talent.  If you would like to play the drums or pipes in a non-competitive environment, give us a call or drop by one of our practices.  Beginners are always welcome.

Ceol na Gael's roots go back to 1999 when the paths of two Hibernian pipers crossed.

Bruce Thompson had just moved to Charlotte from Myrtle Beach, SC where he was actively involved in a local pipe band.  That band happened to wear the traditional Irish saffron kilt which Bruce introduced to Ceol na Gael.

Michael Holian, a New Yorker all his life, had recently moved from Long Island to Rock Hill, SC.  Michael had piped for years in various New York area pipe bands and missed the social aspects of being in a band.  

These two gentlemen agreed that Michael should give lessons to aspiring pipers and, thus, the students could form a band.  Shawn Downs and Scott Sullivan were two of Michael's first students who turned the idea of an Irish pipe band into a reality.  Ceol na Gael was formed in Fall, 2001 with Frank Keenan in the key role of band manager and bass drummer.  Frank still serves in these roles today.

The band's first official performance as Ceol na Gael was the Emerald Ball in  Spring, 2002 at Charlotte's Adam's Mark hotel.  Our first parade was the St. Patrick's Day Parade in Charlotte on Saturday, March 16, 2002.

The Ceol na Gael Irish Pipe Band is a non-profit, all-volunteer, musical group dedicated to furthering the art of bagpipes, drums and the Celtic culture. The band relies on performance fees and your donations to continue our growth and educational pursuits.  Equipment and educational costs are demanding on budgets; therefore, public and private sponsorships are welcome.

Ceol na Gael Irish Pipe Band is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation and is registered in the State of North Carolina.   Donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor of the Carolina's first Irish pipe band or in making a donation, please contact our business manager, Gerry Whalen at gwhalen@ceolnagael.com