Derek joined the E. Division Pipe Band in 2013.

He began his piping career in Calgary in 1968 playing with the Calgary Boys Brigage Pipe Band, the Calgary Highlanders Pipe Band and the Calgary Kiwanas Highland Laddies Pipe Band. The summer following high school graduation, he was resident piper at the Banff Springs Hotel. Derek also competed in solo competitions throughout southern Alberta.

After moving to Vancouver Island, Derek played with the Mount Arrowsmith Pipe Band in Parksville and Castle Carey Pipe Band of Victoria.

In the Lower Mainland, Derek has played with the Chilliwack and District Pipe Band and was one of a number of prominent pipers and drummers who tried to resurrect the Sir. John A. MacDonald Pipe Band.

Highlights of Derek’s piping career include competing in Scotland for the first time with Chilliwack and Districk in 2001, where, after coming off the field in North Berwick, a Scottish judge was overheard to say “ that’s no a bad band!” 

Another highlight includes the following weekend at the worlds, placing 6^th in grade 3A and winning the Corby Bowl. Two years later Chilliwack & District  competed again in 3A at the worlds, and while the band placed out of contention, the pipe section placed third behind two Irish bands, both of whom went on to compete successfully in Grade 2 the following year.