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NLFD Pipes and Drums to set the stage for the 'Big Event'

Students who sleep in on Saturday, Oct. 22, may be awakened by the keening of bagpipes. The New London Firefighters Pipes and Drums will perform their way across campus starting at about 9:15 a.m., as a preview to the Big Event. The musicians will gather at three locations--in front of Harris Refectory, the green between Smith and Branford, and the green across from Harkness Chapel--and play their way across campus to Castle Court, where they will converge in a blended performance.

Immediately afterward, beginning at 9:45 a.m., guests will enter Palmer Auditorium for the Big Event of the Centennial year, "100 Years of Great Beginnings." The event is a 75-minute multimedia production featuring students, staff, faculty and alumni. Seating in Palmer will be on a first-come, first-served basis; prompt arrival is recommended.

The Big Event is part of the College's Centennial Fall Weekend.

The Firefighters Pipes and Drums exemplify a long tradition of pageantry and performance that was brought to the United States by Scottish and Irish immigrants in the 19th century. Their participation in this event evokes the support provided by the City of New London for the founding of Connecticut College in 1911.

Students, guests and members of the College community are invited to join in the procession and follow along to Castle Court.



October 19, 2011