McDonald Memorial Pipe Band is based in Dromore, County Down, Northern Ireland, and was formed in 1977 by the McDonald brothers, Joesy, Albert, Norman and Jim, in memory of their father David McDonald. David was a piper in the 36th Ulster Division and is recorded as having piped at the Somme, giving the band a strong family and commemorative foundation from the start.

The band made an early competitive impact, winning local contests and becoming world champion in its grade in 1978, only a year after formation. After a long break from competition, McDonald Memorial returned to the contest field in July 2011, rebuilding its presence in the Northern Ireland pipe band scene.

As learner numbers grew, the organisation developed further with the creation of McDonald Academy Pipe Band in 2017, providing a pathway for newer players into the senior band. Today, McDonald Memorial remains active around Dromore and Banbridge, competing in Grade 4B and supporting youth development through events such as its juvenile solo competition.