This can be time consuming as there are lots of bits and pieces that need wrangling and cleaning. One the positive side, a bandsman rarely wears underwear so that is one less thing to worry about. This very much depends on the personal view of the individual. Drummers require more space for equipment but will not disrupt home life as they never practice. They also do not have to turn up early on parades for tuning and this can give you more time together.
Pipers have greater earning potential as they get cash for solo gigs.
This has an indirect benefit to the bandsman's partner as the piper generally will keep that money for pints with fellow bandsmen and will not hit you for a loan for a few days afterwards. In addition to extra turnouts they have to arrive earlier to tune up. Some pipers have been known to practice their pipes in between band practices but this is an uncommon affliction and can be checked for before selection. This is a difficult one. The Perth Highland is fortunate to have a reasonably steady supply of fresh faced young colts coming through from Scotch College Pipe Band.