Pipe Major Alistair Duthie, formerly of The Black Watch, has composed a tune in memory of the 14th Army, the multi-national force that comprised units from the Commonwealth countries of Great Britain during the Second World War.
The 14th Army – dubbed the Forgotten Army because its operations in the Burma Campaign were overlooked by the press at the time. Alistair’s tune – a lovely 3/4 slow air, below – remembers them, in particular the 2nd Bn. The Black Watch who made up 42 and 73 column.
As well as British Army units, many units of the 14th Army were from the Indian Army and there were also significant contributions from some African divisions within the British Army.
The New Zealand-born piper is Pipe Major of the Perth & District Pipe Band and is a member of the Atholl Highlanders. In 2011 he was appointed Piper to the City of Perth. He is currently nearing completion of a history of all the known and recorded pipers that served in The Black Watch since its formation in 1739.
Further to yesterday’s post about Fred Morrison’s new collection, Fred has been on to say he is expecting delivery of the book today.
There are 40 tunes in total, he tells us. All are from his own pen and include Skye, The Angel’s Lair and Night Sail to Barra.
The virtuoso piper hasn’t been idle during lockdown. As well as preparing his book for publication, he tells us he’s preparing to record a new album as well as promoting his own range of pipes including uilleann pipes.
There are also plans for an online concert soon.
• Fred’s new collection can be purchased from The Bagpipe Shop, priced £18.00. Telephone +44 (0)141 353 0220 to reserve a copy.
