Among
the various
proud traditions
of dress
and music
that we associate
with Scottish
ceremonies,
the woven
woolen
fabric of
tartan plaid
design is
a dominant
element.
Each Highland
clan (a social
group of
families based
upon common
ancient ancestry)
has a uniquely
distinctive
tartan
pattern and
color combination
that serves
a heraldic
purpose,
identifying
the wearer
as a clan
member
as would a
coat of arms.
The clan tartan
garment
can be used
by either
men or women,
which may
explain
the "unisex" qualities
of the
pleated skirt
or "kilt" that
is the
primary
form universally
worn by
Highlanders
in contemporary
ceremonies.
It
may
surprise
some
that
the origins
of
the
bagpipe are
not
attributable
to
Scotland,
although
the
unique
instrument
has
become
representative
of
Scottish
traditional
martial
and
folk
music. Its
ancient
origins
have
been
traced historically
to
as
far back as
1,000
B.C.
when it
was
used by the
Hittites
in
Syria.
Some
form
of the instrument
has
been
played in
nearly
every
country,
and
is
still popular
in
Poland
and
southern
Italy
as
well
as Ireland
and
Scotland.
Bagpipes
have
had a martial
tradition
in
Scotland
since the
15th century,
calling
clans
to
battle and
inspiring
bravery,
while
intending
to
create fear
and trepidation
among
the
enemy within
earshot.
Today
pipes continue
to be used
in ceremonial
military form
with massed
regimental
bands of pipes
and drums playing
such rousing
favorites as "Scotland
the Brave", "Amazing
Grace", "March
of the Men
of Harlech" and
many others.
The players
generally perform
in colorful
traditional
uniforms creating
an inspirational
and very often
emotional spectacle
of pageantry
and music.
