Hunter is Pipe Major of the Sherman Fire-Rescue Pipe Band
What kind of pipes and chanter do you play?
I play Peter Henderson PH01 pipes with Celtic engraving, that I purchased in 2016. For my solo competitions, my choice of chanter is the Peter Henderson blackwood chanter.
Where do you hail from? Where do you live now?
I was born and raised in North Texas in the City of Sherman. I currently live just outside of town.
Tell me about your piping career. When did you start …
I got my first set of pipes when I was 24. I had been a firefighter for 3 years prior to that and had seen pipers play at many line of duty death and retiree funerals. I have always had a deep passion for music and have been in some sort of band since I was very young, so, I decided to give it a go. After getting up on the pipes, I helped form the Sherman Fire-Rescue Pipe Band and began to play parades, ceremonies and funerals. That band continues to thrive in those same avenues and I am currently, Pipe Major.
About a year or so after the formation of that band, I attended a clinic in Georgetown TX, just outside of Austin. There I met, Jack Lee. Up until that point, I had little to no knowledge of what it meant to be a professional piper or in a competitive band. After watching him play, I was hooked. I immediately returned home to seek out an instructor and didn’t look back. I began competing in solo competitions and loved the thrill of playing in front of a judge. In 2017, I joined Metroplex United Pipe Band and I currently play with North Texas Caledonian Pipes and Drums.
What has been your proudest moment in piping so far?
One of my proudest moments in piping so far is winning the Grade IV competition and receiving “Piper of the Day” at the Houston Solo piping competition.
What has been your most stressful moment?
The first time I ever played for a drummer in a competition; which was at Winter Storm in Kansas City Missouri. Having someone else relying on my abilities in that big of a competition was more stressful than just relying on myself.
Who were you taught by?
After learning a little on my own, I began taking lessons from Matt Willis, of Carrolton, TX. Matt helped to introduce me to the world of solo piping and get me going on the circuit. I attend several clinics and workshops throughout the year with the Fire Department, where I have had the opportunity to receive valuable instruction from renown pipers like Ian K. MacDonald, Callum Beaumont and Stuart Liddell to name a few. I consider myself very fortunate to currently be under the tutelage of Jack Lee.
What do you do as a day job?
I am a Firefighter/Paramedic.
What other hobbies/pursuits/past times do you have?
In addition to piping, I also play the guitar and sing. I enjoy fishing and being outdoors.
Where is the most interesting place your piping travels have taken you?
As I am early on in my career I have yet to play anywhere extraordinary. I am looking forward to playing at the World Pipe Band Championship next year in Scotland.
What would your most perfect event be?
Several come to mind but winning both gold medals and playing in a Grade 1 band have to be my highest ambitions and my idea of the most perfect event.
