You won't believe what Charlottetown's doing now
Good morning from the Atlantic — three provinces, five communities, and the stories that cross every border.
Now look, I've seen a lot of trends come and go on this island. From the great Anne of Green Gables cosplay boom of '98 to the summer everyone decided they needed a kayak, PEI has a way of latching onto things. But if you'd told me a few years back that the College of Piping, nestled there in Summerside, would be seeing a 60% jump in bagpipe enrolment, well, I'd say you'd had too much of that Cavendish beach sun, b'y. Yet here we are. It seems folks are keen to learn the pipes, and not just the usual crowd.
This isn't just a quirky little fact; it’s some shocking. Think about it: a cultural institution seeing a massive surge in interest for something as traditional as bagpipes. It’s like the island is leaning into its heritage in a big way, and the pandemic seems to have played a hand in it. People were stuck at home, looking for new hobbies, and I suppose the mournful wail of the pipes just spoke to their souls. It’s a beautiful, complicated instrument, and to see so many young people, and some not-so-young, taking it up, it just makes your heart swell. It reminds you that we're not just about potatoes and tourism here; we've got a rich tapestry of culture, and sometimes, it just needs a little nudge to burst back into full colour.
### What This Means for Charlottetown
* **Cultural Resurgence:** This isn't just about pipes; it’s a sign that traditional arts and culture are finding new life across the island, which is brilliant for Charlottetown's vibrant arts scene. * **Community Connection:** Learning an instrument like the bagpipes often means joining a band, fostering a stronger sense of community and shared purpose, something we always need more of. * **Tourism Appeal:** Let's be honest, a good pipe band is a draw. Imagine the summer festivals around Victoria Park or down by the waterfront with more of that glorious sound.
For Charlottetown residents, this means more opportunities to hear live piping, maybe even some new bands popping up at community events or marching down Queen Street. It's a lovely reminder that while we often focus on the economic news or the latest council debate, sometimes the most interesting stories are about the quiet, cultural shifts happening right under our noses. It's not just quaint, it's real.
The crew on the morning show are always on about the things you wouldn't expect — give them a listen live at mornings.live.