Glasgow Police Pipe Band has appointed of Alisdair McLaren as its new Pipe Major. Alisdair replaces Iain MacPherson in the role.
Alisdair, pictured right, is the Director of The National Youth Pipe Band of Scotland and has worked at The National Piping Centre for 10 years. He played previously with Field Marshal Montgomery Pipe Band and joined Glasgow Police last season.
Alisdair said: “I am honoured to be appointed to the position of Pipe Major of The Glasgow Police Pipe Band. As a young piper growing up in Perth, Australia, the Strathclyde Police Pipe Band, as it was known then, were one of the top bands which inspired me throughout my musical development. To now have the opportunity to lead such an important and iconic band is a great responsibility and privilege.
“I would like to most importantly thank Iain for his dedication, leadership and support to me over the last few seasons and I look forward to his continued involvement within the pipe corps. Going forward, I’m very excited about working with Drum Sergeant David Henderson and the rest of the team, as we look to further build a solid foundation into next season and beyond.”
Departing Pipe Major, Iain MacPherson said: “I was fortunate enough to initially play with the band in the 1980s and it was an honour to serve as Pipe Major after my retirement from the Police in 2012. I am indebted to Duncan Nicholson and Niall West in working so hard to avoid the band folding during a most difficult phase several years ago. In that regard, many thanks are due to the Scottish Police Federation who recognise the worth of our historic band and now provide significant financial and administrative support.
“I feel that, as Pipe Major, I was in a bit of a ‘caretaker’ role recently, whilst trying to build for the future. It’s really pleasing that positive interest in the band is on the rise again from Police Scotland and the worst years are behind us. I’m moving from the central belt for family reasons, but plan to continue having a tune with the band next season! Good luck to Alisdair, he has my full backing and ongoing support.”
Leading Drummer, David Henderson commented: “Alisdair brings with him a wealth of experience at the highest level, knowledge and enthusiasm; all necessary attributes when striving for success. I am positive that together we will build a team capable of reaching our short and long term goals and I look forward to the journey ahead.
“I would like to thank Pipe Major Iain MacPherson for his dedication and leadership of the band as Pipe Major. He has been a driving force in building a young band with huge potential for the future and I am grateful for the time I had working with him. I am delighted he will be continuing as part of the team going forward. I look forward to what are exciting times ahead for the Glasgow Police Pipe Band.”