I've spoken at great length recently about the family of pipe band. I've referred to a brotherhood in the drum corp. At a time when we reflect on successes and struggles of a season gone by, we receive news of a loss of a brother.
I remember the day I was informed of a new player joining the ranks, one with history, trophies, skill, and knowledge. I was in awe of this man the day he showed up.
Allister Rodger was a quiet force. He demanded respect simply through his silence. He always had a quiet word for the young guys, like myself, that needed encouragement from those with more experience. Many of us benefited from his experience.
He always satisfied myself, and the other young punks, with stories of bands he played in, pipers he competed against.It was the stories that sparked our dreams.
As Allister took ill he would often reappear at competitions. I would catch a glimpse of him watching a young piper walking the boards, and his smile would always be there when the band broke off after a run in the circle. A pat on the back for the boys, a "good play", a quick nod, then the constructive criticism. He was always adjudicating, looking for the improvement to be made.
One of Allister's closest pupils in piping was long time band member Scott Foster. Scott left the band this year to pursue a run at the big leagues. I'm sure Allister was proud seeing Scott in the kilt of the Grade 1 Alberta Caledonia, and knowing he performed in the Grade 1 circle at the world's would have warmed Allister's heart.
This great man is gone now. Passed away at 56 years old. Too soon. His ever piping hands are still, and we will miss him. Tomorrow we say goodbye, and I shall add him to my very short list of people I put in my mind, and heart just before I walk to the final tuning circle. Hoping to do him proud.
Sean
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