The Tara Hall Pipe Band was formed in Troy, New York in 1975. The Columbia and District band was formed in Hudson, New York in 1986 under sponsorship of the Columbia County Ancient Order of Hibernians. In December 2001, the Tara Hall and Columbia and District bands merged to form the Capital Region Celtic Pipe Band (CRC). By combining resources and membership, the band now has an active pipe corps of over 25 and 15 drummers. The band is very active in the community performing in parades, competitions, concerts and a variety of other venues. Band pipers also conduct educational discussions and performances for senior citizen groups, schools and others interested in learning about the great highland bagpipe and its history.

Besides events in the greater Capital District of New York, CRC plays throughout the northeast including the St. Patrick's Day Parade in Boston and the renowned July 4th parade in Pittsfield MA.

The band participates in competitions at Celtic games and Highland festivals primarily in New England and New York State. Both bands have had a long history of success on the competition field and that tradition continues under its new auspices. The band will compete at the Grade III, IV, and V levels in 2004.

The band uniform is a day wear style including black jacket, white shirt, black tie, glengarry, off-white hose and ghille brogue shoes.

CRC meets every Tuesday evening at CELTIC Hall, East Greenbush, New York under the able direction of Pipe Major Pat Sweet. New members of all experience levels are always welcome and instruction is available for those interested in learning either the pipes or drums.

Contacting John Franklin at (518) 439-6618 or via E-mail at jtfranklin@verizon.net can obtain additional information about instruction, membership, or band availability.
You can also visit their web site at: www.crcpb.com