By JEANNIE CAMPBELL MBE • PART 8 • AUGUST
1st August
In the Edinburgh Music in the Parks series Gorgie and District Pipe Band under PM Alexander Rae played in the West Meadows 7pm to 9pm.
This notice appeared in the Mearns Leader: “Stonehaven Pipe Band. The Advertising and Town’s Improvement Committee are most desirous of supplying the members of the Band with Highland Dress and confidently appeal to the Public for subscriptions towards this desirable end. Subscriptions may be intimated to the undernoted at the Official Inquiry Bureau, 19 Barclay Street, Stonehaven. Charles Burns, Provost. Gordon F Mowat, Convener. Amount Already Acknowledged £38. 15. 0. Miscellaneous Donations £2. 1. 0. Visitors v Locals Hockey Match £1.10. 0. Pipe Band Collection £7. 0 10. Total £49. 6. 10. Grateful thanks are due to Mr James Duncan, 2 Radnor Terrace, Glasgow, for sum of 7s 6d. Collected from friends in Glasgow, and also to the committee of the Stonehaven Hockey Club.”
The Wishaw Press announced: “Tonight Friday, Dalziel Highland Pipe Band is due to play a programme in Belhaven Park and tomorrow evening, also at 6.30 o’clock the Band of the 1st Battalion Royal Scots Fusiliers will be the attraction.”
The world’s greatest novelty – Australian Scottish Ladies’ Pipe Band on world tour
The Wishaw Press also had this article: “Australia has led the world in the formation of a complete ladies’ band. This unique organisation is known as the Australian Scottish Ladies’ Pipe Band and is on a tour of the World. It will attend the Empire Exhibition in October. The band is in charge of Drum Major William Darwin FRGS, who is the only gentleman connected with it. The pipe major is Mrs Jessie Young, champion lady piper of Western Australia. The band consists of 18 members, and in its ranks it claims many champions. It has made itself famous throughout Australia. The members are all Australian born, but wear the kilt and play the bagpipes to perfection. They sailed from Australia on July 24th for Britain via Africa, where they will stay for three weeks as the guests of the people of Durban. They will then proceed to England, Scotland, Ireland, Wales, France, America, Canada, Honolulu, Suva, New Zealand, and home to Australia. The tour will last 14 months. They are due to arrive in England on or about October 6th. This band can claim the honour of being the world’s greatest novelty, as it is the first and only band of its kind in the world.”
In fact the tour was delayed due to financial problems and the issue of passports to under age members. The band did not arrive in England until April 1926, travelling on to Scotland later that year. By this time Dolly MacPherson was the pipe major and the band consisted of seven pipers and three drummers.
2nd August
In Thurso the pipe band under PM Donald Swanson headed the parade at the fund raising Town Improvements Bazaar.
The Oban Times had this: “Oban Policeman in Vancouver. Constable Duncan MacTavish, who has been traffic pointsman at the corner of Hastings and Main Street, the busiest point in Vancouver, for years, comes from Oban, and is, as would be expected a good Gaelic speaker. He is also Pipe Major of the Vancouver Police Pipe Band. Previous to his coming to Vancouver he served on the Glasgow force.”
At Portlethen Sports the results were: Marches: 1. PM Ewen, Aberdeen; 2. R B Nicol, Durris; 3. F Morrison, Aberdeen. Piobaireachd: 1. Ewen; 2. Nicol; 3. Morrison. Strathspeys and Reels: 1. Ewen; 2. Nicol; 3. Morrison. The judges of the dancing and piping were W B Findlay, Portlethen, J Leonard, Culter and W Webster, Aberdeen.
At Ellon Sports the results were, Piobaireachd: 1. Sgt Cruickshank, 5th Gordons; 2. W Grant, Ellon; 3. R Brown, Banchory. Marches: 1. Sgt Cruickshank; 2. R Brown; 3. W Grant. Strathspeys and Reels: 1. Sgt Cruickshank; 2. R Brown; 3. W Grant.
The judges at Strathallan Gathering were PM McLeod, Edinburgh; Mr Andrew McKenzie, Airthrey; and Mr Thos Turnbull, Bridge of Allan. Piobaireachd: 1. PM Ross, Edinburgh; 2. PM Reid, Shettleston; 3. PM Yardley, Cambuslang; 4. Allan M Calder, Edinburgh. Marches: 1. PM Ross; 2. PM Reid; 3. PM D R McLennan, Seaforth Highlanders; 4. A M Calder. Strathspeys and Reels: 1. PM Ross; 2. PM McLennan; 3. A M Calder. Marches (under 21): 1. J Wilson, Edinburgh; 2. Angus Brown, Cambusbarron; 3. J Jack, Cambusbarron.
At Inverkeithing Games the result of the band contest was: 1. Millhall, 2. Glasgow Corporation Tramways, 3. Cowdenbeath. Millhall also won the medal for drumming. Solo results were, Marches: 1. J Bremner, Glencraig; 2. PM Duff, Edinburgh; 3. PM Herd, Bowhill; 4. PM W McEchern, Glasgow. Strathspeys and Reels: 1. PM McEchern; 2. PM Duff; 3. PM Herd; 4. H Rattray, Dundee. The judges for piping and dancing were H F Scott, E Taylor and J Russell.
The Tailteann Games in Dublin opened with a shinty match between Scotland and Ireland. Previous to the match an imposing parade of athletes took place, and the Scottish shinty section, who were headed by a pipe band, received a rousing reception as they passed under review in the opening ceremony. Thirty thousand spectators saw Scotland beat Ireland by two to one.
The events continued on Monday with singing and instrumental competitions. There was a considerable delay in commencing the Uilleann Pipes competition, and after half an hour the audience became restive and protested by stamping their feet in determined fashion. Another quarter of an hour elapsed before the competition commenced. Mr R L O’Mealy, adjudicator, said that the standard was very high. In the first prize winner they had a very interesting player. His hornpipe playing was good. He would like to give the second prize winner every encouragement in his melody playing. The names of the players were not given.
3rd August
Two of the scouts attending the Wembley jamboree were pictured in the Sunday Pictorial.
4th August
At Mallaig and District Games the results were, Marches: 1. Allan Paterson, Fort William; 2. Duncan Kennedy, Invergarry; 3. E J Cameron, Fort William. Strathspeys and Reels: 1. Duncan Kennedy; 2. E J Cameron; 3. Allan Paterson. Local Marches: 1. Duncan Kennedy; 2. Duncan Gillies, Mallaig; 3. Lachlan Mackenzie, Mallaig; 4. John Michie, Mallaig. Local Strathspeys and Reels: 1. Duncan Kennedy; 2. Duncan Gillies; 3. John Michie; 4. Lachlan Mackenzie.
6th August
Edinburgh City Police Pipe Band under PM Hendry played in west Princes Street Gardens from 3pm to 5pm. Port of Leith Pipe Band under PM James Tait played at Leith Links from 7pm to 9pm.
The Turriff Pipe Band under PM Lipp played at the Turriff show and sports and at the Caithness Agricultural Show the Thurso Pipe Band under PM Donald Swanson played at intervals during the day.
7th August
At Mull and Iona Games the Open results were, Piobaireachd: 1. Duncan Lamont; 2. Archie MacCalman; 3. Charles Weir. Marches, Strathspeys and Reels: 1. Duncan Lamont; 2. Archie MacCalman; 3. Ian MacLean. Local Marches, Strathspeys and Reels: 1. Duncan Lamont; 2. Ian MacLean. Marches: 1. Archie MacCalman; 2. Charles Weir; 3. James Thomson. Strathspeys and Reels: 1. Archie MacCalman; 2. Charles Weir; 3. James Thomson.
8th August
At Tiroran Games the Open results were, Piobaireachd: 1. Duncan Lamont and Donald MacGillivray equal; 3. Archie MacCalman. Marches: 1. Duncan Lamont; 2. James Thomson; 3. Archie MacCalman. Strathspey and Reel; 1. Duncan Lamont; 2. D MacGillivray; 3. A MacCalman. Local March: 1. A MacCalman; 2. James Thomson; 3. Ronald Livingstone. Local Strathspey and Reel: 1. Charles Weir; 2. A MacCalman; 3. R Livingstone.
At the annual Scottish Command Highland Gathering held at Redford Barracks before a large attendance of spectators the piping results were, Piobaireachd: 1. PM D McLennan, Depot Seaforths; 2. Sgt J Ross, Depot Gordons; 3. L/Cpl Turnbull, 2nd Gordons. Marches: 1. PM McLennan, Depot Seaforths; 2. PM Taylor, Queen Victoria School; 3. Sgt Ross, Depot Gordons. Strathspey and Reel: 1. PM McLennan, Depot Seaforths; 2. Sgt Ross Depot, Gordon Highlanders. Officers’ Marches: 1. Lieut A G Davidson, Depot RSF; 2. Capt C M Usher, 2nd Gordons; 3. Lieut E Brickman, Depot Cameronians.
The Lonach Gathering was held: “In their march to the haugh the Lonach Highlanders made a brave show, headed by their pipe band, and each man armed with a pike. Numbering over two score, they were mostly veterans who could recall when the parade went into hundreds. There was, however, a sprinkling of younger men. As the representative of the Forbes family, Mr Alexander Forbes of Inverernan marched at the head of the pikemen. Before the march the Highlanders were entertained to lunch in the Lonach Hall, Mr Charles Christie, factor, Strathdon, presided and was accompanied by Mr Alexander Forbes.
“‘”The prize list was as follows, Best dressed Highlander (Society) 1. James Stuart, Strathdon; 2. A Findlay, Strathdon; 3. A C McGregor, Strathdon. Best Dressed Highland (open), any tartan James Stuart. Marches (Society) F McGregor. Strathspeys and Reels (Society) F McGregor. Piobaireachds (open) 1. Sgt Cruickshank, Stoneywood; 2. R Brown, Banchory; 3. PM Murdoch McKenzie, Glen Tanar. Marches (open) 1. Sgt Cruickshank; 2. R Brown; 3. PM McKenzie. Strathspeys and Reels (open) ) 1. Sgt Cruickshank; 2. R Brown; 3. PM McKenzie.”
Edinburgh Tramways Pipe Band, PM S Sutherland, played in the West Meadows at 7pm
9th August
4/5th Royal Scots, PM J Robertson, played in West Princes Street Gardens from 7pm.
The two Indian bands chosen to play at Wembley were featured in The Sphere: “The men of the two Indian regimental bands selected to play at Wembley – those of the 4/8th Punjab Regiment and the 2/10th Baluch Regiment – are quartered in Farm Barracks, that group of low stone buildings almost at the gates of Hampton Court Palace – that is, in the intervals of fulfilling their manifold engagements in and out of London. Both regiments are recruited from the fighting, landowning classes of the north of India, and consist, with the exception of a few Madrassis, of Sikhs and Punjabi Mahommedans and they find in their stay in England an adventure glorious beyond the hope of man. Every single one of them will be a great man in his village to the day of his death. Few of the men can write, but every effort is made to keep them in touch with their own people. Indian newspapers are sent over by every mail, and each month the necessary supplies of food, including native flour and ghi (clarified butter), are also despatched from India. The bands have appeared at Wembley, the Coliseum and other places.”
At the Stock Show, Craigellachie, Aberdeenshire, the piping and dancing judges were Mr Andrew MacDonald, and Mr E Farquhar. Marches: 1. PM D Matheson, 6th Seaforth Highlanders; 2. R Brown, Banchory; 3. Grant, Nethybridge. Strathspeys and Reels: 1. PM D Matheson; 2. R Brown; 3. Gow, Keith and Grant, Nethybridge, equal.
Results at Callander Games were, Piobaireachds: 1. PM Reid; 2. PM Ross; 3 and 4 equal. George Yardley and PM Taylor. Marches: 1 and 2 equal. PM Ross, Edinburgh and PM Reid; 3. PM Melville; 4. PM Ross, Aberdeen. Strathspeys and Reels: 1. PM Roiss, Edinburgh; 2. G Yardley; 3. J McDonald; 4. PM Taylor.
The 42nd Strathpeffer Gathering was held in delightful weather with Sir Hector Munro of Foulis as Chieftain. Marches: 1. John MacDonald, Inverness; 2. D MacLennan, Fort George. Strathspeys and Reels: 1. John MacDonald; 2. Wm McDonald, Tongue. Piobaireachds: 1. John MacDonald; 2. D MacLennan.
The piping and dancing at Stonehaven Flower Show and Games was judged by Ex-Bailie Crichton and Mr John Watson, Sauchieburn. PM Ewing, Aberdeen, had the premier awards for piping, being closely followed by R Nicol, Banchory, a young piper who is rapidly coming to the forefront. Results were, Marches: 1. PM Ewing, Aberdeen; 2. R Nicol, Banchory; 3. PM G McDonald, Stonehaven. Strathspeys and Reels: 1. PM Ewing; 2. R Nicol; 3. PM G McDonald.
Results at Newmachar Games were, Piobaireachd: 1. Sgt G Cruickshank, Aberdeen; 2. William Grant, Esslemont; 3. PM Cruickshank, Aberdeen. March: 1. Sgt Cruickshank; 2. W Grant; 3. R A Hendry, Tarves. Strathspey and Reel: 1. Sgt Cruickshank; 2. PM Cruickshank; 3. R A Hendry.
The fifth annual outing of the Perth Branch of the Black Watch Association was held in a field at Bridge of Earn. About 600 members, with their wives and children, and also 40 disabled soldiers from Kilgraston Hospital, were present. A sports programme and an exhibition of dancing by PM Cameron’s troupe was carried through during the afternoon.
In Somerset at the Flower Show and Sports day of St Cuthbert’s paper works attractions included displays of Highland dances and bagpipe playing by children of the Royal Caledonian Schools.
10th August
The Sunday Post had an article about Scots in America. The writer stated: “We have more pipe bands in the USA than there are in Scotland. There are fourteen of them in New York City alone.”
A party of 300 juveniles and 90 adults of the Independent Order of Rechabites left Grangemouth by special train for a field at Dunblane. The Charing Cross Boys’ Brigade, under PM Burns, accompanied the excursion. The children were served with milk on arrival and afterwards with tea and cakes. Sports including football and races were held. An impromptu band contest between the BB band and a band from a Camelon excursion nearby afforded great pleasure.
11th August
At Iona Regatta and Games the piping judges were Angus MacPhail, Iona, PM Neil McCormack, Glasgow and J MacLean, Calcutta. Open Marches, Strathspeys and Reels: 1. Malcolm Macpherson, Bunessan; 2. Hugh Lamont, Pennyghael; 3. John Graham, Bunessan. Novice piping: 1. John Graham; 2. Hugh Lamont; 3. Neil MacLean, Fionphort.
At Lossiemouth Games the piping and dancing judges were Chief Constable J B Mair, Elgin; Mr H C Willock Pollen, Surrey; and Mr J MacLachlan Smith, Salterhill. Marches: 1. PM Taylor, Dunblane; 2. PM MacLennan, Fort George; 3. PM Matheson, Elgin. Strathspeys and Reels: 1. PM MacLennan; 2. PM Ewen, Aberdeen; 3. PM Matheson.
Accompanied by their pipe band the local company of the Boys’ Brigade arrived home in Bathgate from their annual camp at Links House, North Berwick.
13th August
The Tramways Pipe Band, PM Donald Sutherland, played in West Princes Street Gardens at 3pm.
The results from Dinnet Games were reported as, March, Strathspey and Reel: 1. PM McKenzie; 2. PM J McKenzie; 3. Miss G Ross.
Bagpipes to Startle the Jungle
This article in the Yorkshire Evening Post might be offensive to pipers and others: “To the howling, shrieking, droning and throbbing noises of birds and beasts in the dense forests of Central America and the West Indies, after the tropical night has closed down over the land, another mysterious medley of sounds will shortly be added, to disturb – if not to terrify – the intrepid explorer, causing him to pile more fuel on the fire and look closely to the charging of his trusty musket.
“Scots will learn with mixed feelings that prosperous black visitors to Wembley have discovered the bagpipes and are ‘just crazy about em’. Many of the ebon-hued tourists had never even heard of the existence of so strange a sound-producing engine. They mistook the limp, gaudily tartan-clad lungs of the thing for wearing apparel, and in one case it was only when a customer in the shop actually tried to pick up the pipes that he thought were lying under the garment – as he himself explained, with a vast grin – that he discovered that it was all one homogenous whole. He asked for a demonstration. Mr Cohen, the bagpipes expert, obliged, and immediately he ‘fell for it’ and paid spot cash.
“A round of the musical instrument shops was one of the first expeditions made by the West Indian and British Honduran visitors. They are spending money with a free hand. Silver plated saxophones are the favourite purchase, and as much as £30 and £40 has been paid, in several cases, for these mellifluous enliveners of tropical ease. But bagpipes run them close. Nor will any old bagpipes do. Trinidad and Jamaica have ambitions. They intend to begin where Aberdeen and Inverness left off. They are acquiring only the pipes with the most up-to-date gadgets and refinements, giving intensified soul to the heights of shrilling and the depths of droning.
“This run on bagpipes has taken the makers quite unawares and opened their eyes to the wide field the Empire offers to future business. No musical instrument holds its sway for ever. Gone is the Sackbutt and stilled is the voice of many of its Hebraic contemporaries. Even in my brief span of years I have seen the balalaika fall in Russia before the onslught of the concertina and accordion, and these latter superseded by the cheap and tinny talking machines with pale blue tin horns.
“Broadcast music of the normal kind is not nearly ‘full-bodied’ enough for tourists. But splendid effects can be produced by working up emotion with a super-saxophone and then reaching a grand crescendo with the bagpipes. We may shortly see bagpipes broadcasting stations established in Nigeria, New Guinea and the Solomons, manned by Scotia’s grimmest and hairiest experts, and the entire equator being spanned Imperially, every night of the week at 9.10 by the rousing strains of The Campbells are Coming and Phairshon Swore a Feud.
14th August
The Royal Horticultural Society of Aberdeen Grand Centenary Flower Show took place on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 14th, 15th and 16th August, in Duthie Park, Aberdeen. In attendance were the band of the 4th Battalion Gordon Highlanders and the Aberdeen City Police and Oakbank Pipe Bands.
At Banff Flower Show and Games the judges for piping and dancing were Charles Ewen, Aberdeen; PM W Mann, Bucksburn and PM Findlater, Forglen. Results were, Piobaireachd: 1. Sgt George Cruickshank; 2. R Brown; 3. P/Sgt Smith. Marches: 1. Sgt George Cruickshank; 2. R Brown; 3. W Steuart. Strathspey and Reel: 1. Sgt George Cruickshank; 2. R Brown; 3. P/Sgt Smith. Marches (Amateurs only): 1. W Steuart; 2. Forbes Morrison, Aberdeen; 3. Eric Rutherford. Strathspey and Reels (Amateurs only): 1. Forbes Morrison; 2. W Steuart; 3. Eric Rutherford. The dancing was split into three sections, Men only, Ladies only and Juveniles.
At Kyleakin Games the results were, Piobaireachd: 1. PM John MacDonald, Inverness; 2. PM D R MacLennan, Seaforth; 3. K MacKay. Marches: 1. PM John MacDonald; 2. K MacKay; 3. PM D R MacLennan. Strathspeys and Reels: PM John MacDonald; 2. PM Donald A Campbell, Glendale; 3. PM Taylor.
Gorgie District Pipe Band, PM A Rae played at Leith Links in the evening.
The Daily Record included this ghost story: “The Pass of Drumochter, near Badenoch, was the scene of a skirmish during the ’45, between Prince Charlie’s clansmen and a party of the English redcoats, which resulted in the flight of the Sassenachs, and their subsequent slaughter. To this day, tradition avers, the wailing of bagpipes is heard on that desolate moorland, and, as darkness falls ghostly figures gather on the site of the old battleground and engage once more in combat.”
The piping judge at Pitsligo Games was Mr James Will, Denburn House. Marches: 1. PM Ross, Aberdeen; 2. PM Ewen; 3. PM J Reid. Strathspeys and Reels: 1. PM Ewen; 2. PM Ross; 3. PM J Reid.
15th August
The Wishaw Press and Advertiser had this: “At a largely attended meeting held in the Old School, Newmains, it was decided to form a pipe band, and in the short period of a week there has been enrolled eighteen pipers and six drummers. The teaching is in the capable hands of Pipe Major G Napier who in a few weeks’ time expects to have things in full working order.”
The results of the 9th A & SH TA Sports, held during their training camp at Denny, were reported. Piping competition for full pipers: 1. Piper McDonald, Headquarters; 2. Piper McGinlay, Headquarters. Competition for Novices: 1. Piper Tait, Headquarters; 2. Piper McGinlay, Headquarters.
The Linlithgowshire Gazette reported that Kirkliston BB Pipe Band contemplated a weekend camp at Dirleton. A visit to North Berwick while there, they believed would swell the band funds.
The 7th/9th Royal Scots Pipe Band under PM J Peden, played in West Meadows, Edinburgh in the evening.
Bagpies in Orchestra?
The Courier had this: “John Drinkwater has finished his opera based on the life of Robert Burns. Frederic Austin, who composed the music for the Hammersmith version of The Beggar’s Opera, has written the score, but whether the orchestra will include the bagpipes remains to be seen, though the composer some time ago discussed the idea. The opera will be produced at the Lyric, Hammersmith, in the autumn.”
16th August
At Lochaweside Gathering the piping was judged by Captain Alastair C MacLaren. Marches: 1. A MacInnes; 2. M Shanks; 3. A MacArthur. Strathspey and Reel: 1. J Strang; 2. A MacInnes; 3. A MacArthur.
At Benderloch Regatta, Sports, and Horticultural Show Piper H McKenzie added much to the day’s enjoyment by his various selections of pipe music.
At Friockheim Flower Show the Rossie Boys Pipe Band played during the afternoon and evening.
The Dundee Pipe Band and Balmoral Troupe of Dancers played at Airlie Flower Show and Sports which included dancing and piping competitions.
The Oban Times reported results from Tiree Show. March, Strathspey and Reel (Locals): 1. Lachlan McDonald, Balemartin; 2. Malcolm McLean, Salem. March, Strathspey and Reel (Open): 1. John Campbell, Glasgow; 2. Malcolm McLean; 3. Lachlan McDonald. March, Strathspey and Reel (Confined): 1. M McLean; 2. D McFadyen, Coll.
The same paper had another review of Ian MacLennan’s Piobaireachd book and this report on the Oban Pipe Band: “There is on view in the window of Mr William Chalmers, Highland Tweed Warehouse, in George Street, Oban, a large sized picture group in colours of the Oban Pipe Band, artistically executed by Mr H M Stevens, photographer. The picture was presented to Mr Duncan MacDougall, Cawdor Place, Oban, on Monday evening by the members of the band as a mark of their esteem and gratitude for the generous aid given to them by Mr MacDougall on the formation of the band and for the continued interest taken by him in the band’s progress. The presentation took place in the Drill Hall. Piper James Stewart, secretary, asked Pipe Major Angus Lawrie to make the presentation. This Pipe Major Lawrie did, at the same time extending to Mr MacDougall the best wishes of the band. Mr MacDougall said the gift was totally unexpected by him. Anything he had done for the band had afforded him the greatest pleasure. He was proud to hear of the band’s outstanding success at the recent Comrie Highland Gathering, and hoped when they went to the Cowal Games this year they would return with additional honours. Pipe Sergeant James McPhee also made complimentary reference to Mr MacDougall’s consideration and generosity towards the band.”
There was a report of a celebration at Poltalloch: “Celebrations on an extensive scale have been held at Poltalloch, the well-known home of the Malcolm family, to mark the coming of age of Mr George Ian, eldest son of Sir Ian Malcolm, KCMG. Mr Malcolm, who holds a commission in the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, attained his 21st birthday on 26th April last, but as his battalion was then in Egypt the festivities were postponed until now. The Poltalloch Pipe Band, under Pipe Major Sutherland, Seaforths, played selections during the afternoon.”
The same paper included a report from Canada: “One of the most successful events of its kind as regards merit and attendance, ever held in Canada was the first annual Caledonian Gathering held in Hamilton, Ontario, recently, when a programme of Highland and other athletic events, with piping and dancing, was carried through before a gathering of about four thousand spectators.”
The results of the piping events were, Piobaireachd: 1. N MacPherson, Hamilton; 2. Donald MacPherson, Toronto; 3. PM Wright, Hamilton. March: 1. Donald Graham, Detroit; 2. Donald MacPherson, Toronto; 3. J Hamilton, London. Strathspey and Reel: 1. Donald H MacPherson, Toronto; 2. Donald MacPherson, Hamilton; 3. Donald Graham, Toronto.
Piping Competition (Open): 1. Donald Ellis, St Thomas; 2. A MacDonald, Toronto; 3. J Brownlee, Hamilton. Regimental Piping Competition: 1. G Cairn, 91st Highlanders, Hamilton; 2. Donald Ellis, 1st Regiment, St Thomas; 3. G Brownlee, 91st Highlanders, Hamilton. Junior Piping Competition: 1. Robert Allen, Hamilton; 2. Marion Watson, Hamilton; 3. William Morrison, Aldershot. The judges of Highland Events were William Johnson, Montreal; William McPherson, St Thomas and James McCarthy, Detroit.
The 7th/9th Royal Scots Pipe Band, under PM J Peden played in West Princes Street Gardens in the evening.
In Ireland results from the Tailteann were given for the flute band and brass bands. There were no entries for the individual War Pipes competition. The report stated that the result of the pipe band competition would not be announced for some time.
There was rain at Crieff Highland Gathering. During the day there was a military display by the Queen’s Own Hussars from Edinburgh and their band gave selections. Results were, Piobaireachds (open to all comers): 1 and 2. PM R Reid, Glasgow and PM Ross, Edinburgh; 3. John MacDonald, Glasgow; 4. A M Calder, Edinburgh. Piobaireachds (open only to those who have never won a first or second prize): 1. J Ross, Aberdeen; 2. J Wilson, Edinburgh; 3. PM Pritchard, Perth; 4. J C Duncan, Musselburgh. Marches (open to all comers): 1. PM Ross, Edinburgh; 2 and 3. PM Reid and J MacDonald, equal; 4. C MacEachern, Glasgow. Marches (open only to those who have never won a first or second prize): 1. J Ross, Aberdeen; 2. J Wilson; 3. R MacDonald, Lovat Scouts; 4. L/Cpl Ritchie, Stirling. Strathspey and Reel (open to all comers) 1. W Ross; 2 and 3. A M Calder and J MacDonald, equal; 4. C MacEachern. Strathspey and Reel (open only to those who have never won a first or second prize): 1. PM F F Ross, Stirling; 2. PM J Ross, Aberdeen; 3. John Wilson, Edinburgh; 4. Roderick MacDonald.
At Fordoun Sports the results were, Marches: 1. G Urquhart, Drumelzie; 2. G Watt, Auchcairnie. Strathspeys and Reels: 1. G Urquhart; 2. G Watt.
At Nairn on the same day the weather was fine until towards the end when it rained. The pipe band of the Seaforth Highlanders from Fort George played during the day and soldiers from Fort George gave a gymnastic display. The judges were Major H C H Allanby, Mr Somerled Macdonald, Skeabost and Mr Grant, Inverness. The results were, Piobaireachd: 1. PM John MacDonald, Inverness; 2. PM R Meldrum, Inverness; 3. PM D R MacLennan, Seaforth Highlanders. Marches: 1. PM MacDonald; 2. K MacKay, Inverness; 3. PM DD Mathieson, Seaforth Highlanders. Strathspey and Reel: 1. PM John MacDonald; 2. PM William MacDonald, Lovat Scouts; 3. PM Wm Taylor, Dunblane. Bagpipe playing (open to Boy Scouts under 18 years): 1. Chas Rose, Inverness; 2. M Innes, Nairn; 3. Ronald Gordon, Nairn.
London paper The Evening Express had this: “The late Spencer Leigh Hughes was speaking at a dinner in the Holborn Restaurant when in the next room there was a gathering of the clans, and while Hughes was making his speech the skirl of the bagpipes drowned his voice. Hughes, stopped, looked round and with a twinkle in his eye remarked, ‘Ladies and gentlemen, when the rival windbag in the next room stops, I’ll go on.’
The Berwickshire News reported that at Burnmouth Gala: “Mr W F McMillan DCM, ex-Pipe Major of Berwick, rendered the following programme during the afternoon: March, 79th Farewell to Gibraltar; Slow March, My Home; March, The Barren Rocks of Aden; Strathspey, Sir D F MacLeod; Reel, Miss MacLeod of Raasay; songs, Edinburgh Toon, Over the Sea to Skye, My Lodgings are on the Cold Ground; Marches, The Atholl Highlanders, The Campbells are Coming, The Blue Bonnets are Over the Border; Strathspey, The Devil in the Kitchen; Reel, The De’il Among the Taylors; March, The Road to the Isles. An exhibition of Highland dancing was also given.”
20th August
At Inveraray Games rain fell heavily all day and the attendance was not up to that of previous years. Special prize for Amateur Piping presented by His Grace the Duke of Argyll, previous winners of first prize ineligible: 1. D MacPhedran, Inveraray; 2. J P Macdonald, Argyllshire Police; 3. D Miller, Ormidale; 4. Ian C Cameron, Islay. Marches, Strathspeys and Reels, Juniors 18 years and younger: 1. Ian C Cameron, Islay; 2. P MacCallum, Campbeltown; 3. T Bond, Inveraray. Open events. Piobaireachd: 1. PM Ross, Edinburgh Castle; 2. PM Macdonald, Scots Guards; 3. A Gordon, Edinburgh. Marches: 1. PM Ross, Edinburgh Castle; 2. PM Macdonald, Scots Guards; 3. A Calder, Edinburgh. Strathspeys and Reels: 1. PM Ross, Edinburgh Castle; 2. PM Macdonald, Scots Guards;3. A Calder, Edinburgh.
At Comrie Golf Club Grand Carnival the Crieff Municipal Silver Band and Comrie and District Pipe Band were in attendance.
It was wet at Strathardle Games too. The results were, Piobaireachds: 1. PM Taylor, Dunblane; 2. PM McPhee, Perth; 3 equal. PM Lamond, Newtyle and H McMillan, Kirkmichael. Marches: 1. PM Taylor; 2. PM McPhee; 3 equal. H McMillan and M McMillan, Kirkmichael. Reels and Strathspeys: 1. PM Taylor; 2. H McMillan; 3 equal. PM Lamond and PM Irvine, Dunkeld.
21st August
It was wet at the Breadalbane Gathering held in Victoria Park, Aberfeldy. The Black Watch Pipe Band, Perth, played during the proceedings. The judges were Thomas Bett, Aberfeldy; Capt A C McLaren, MC; Connel Ferry; Capt Willison, MC Killin; E McDiarmid Edinburgh. John McColl, Glasgow was one of the dancing judges. Results were, Open Competitions, Piobaireachds: 1. PM Ross, Edinburgh; 2 and 3 equal. PM MacDonald, Scots Guards and C MacEachern, Islay. Marches: 1. PM Ross; 2. PM MacDonald; 3. M MacMillan, Meggernie. Strathspeys and Reels: 1. PM Ross; 2. PM MacDonald; 3. A M Calder. Local Competitions, Marches: 1. Wm Laing, Aberfeldy; 2. John Fraser, Fortingall; 3. K Chisholm, Aberfeldy.
Strathspeys and Reels: 1. Wm Laing; 2. John Fraser; 3. K Chisholm.
22nd August
The KOSB pipe band under PM Wm McKenzie played in West Princes Street Gardens.
This update from the Burgh of Stonehaven appeared: “Stonehaven Pipe Band. The Advertising and Town’s Improvement Committee are most desirous of supplying the members of the Band with Highland Dress, and confidently appeal to the Public for subscriptions towards this desirable end.
“Subscriptions may be intimated to the under-noted at the Official Inquiry Bureau, 19 Barclay Street, Stonehaven.
“Charles Burns, Provost.
“Gordon F Mowat, Convener.
“Amount already Acknowledged £59. 6. 11d.
“Last Pipe Band Performance £3. 6. 6d.
“Total £62. 14. 5d.”
At the 62nd Annual Glenisla Gathering the results were Piobaireachd: 1. PM Ross, Edinburgh; 2. PM Reid, Glasgow; 3 equal. PM McDonald, Glasgow and PM Taylor, Dunblane. Marches: 1. PM Taylor; 2. PM Ross; 3. PM McDonald. Strathspeys and Reels: 1. PM Ross; 2. PM Reid; 3 equal. PM McDonald and PM Taylor.
23rd August
PM Cruickshank judged the piping at Lochgoilhead Sports. The result was: 1. J Francis; 2. Ian McCallum; 3. W McCallum; 4. D McLachlan.
At Braes of Rannoch Highland Gathering the Vale of Atholl Pipe Band played during the afternoon. Results were, Local piping. Marches: 1. Robertson. Reels: 1. Robertson. Open Piping. Marches: 1. Robert Irvine; 2. Stewart. Reels: 1. Stewart; 2. Irvine.
The 7/9th Royal Scots, PM Peden played on Leith Links in the closing performance of the season.
The Grand Pipe Band Contest at Birnam Games was held. The result was: 1. Clan MacRae, PM Wm Fergusson (£20), 2. Glasgow Tramways, PM Gavin Robertson (£15), 3. Millhall, PM George MacDonald (£10), 4. Lochgelly, PM Brown (£7.10s), 5. Cowdenbeath, PM D Lamond, (£5). Seven bands played and the day concluded with a massed band performance. This result appeared in The Scotsman and the Sunday Post but was also in the Dundee Courier, which had the 4th and 5th placed bands reversed.
The Sunday Post also had this concerning the solo results: “In Marches and Strathspeys PM McDonald, Scots Guards; PM Reid, Glasgow and A M Calder gained the principal prizes.”
In Campbeltown a fancy dress parade was led by the pipe band. A concert and dance followed. £139.15s 1d was raised for the hospital.
Later the Oban Times reported: “The Clan MacRae Pipe Band (Pipe Major William Fergusson) are to be congratulated on winning the Pipe Band contest (open to Scotland) at the Birnam Highland Gathering on Saturday last. Formerly known as the City of Glasgow Pipe Band, Pipe Major Fergusson and his men won numerous prizes during the past half dozen years. A popular member of the band is Mr John C MacColl, son of champion piper John MacColl, who bids fair to follow in the footsteps of his father. Their success brought them the valuable prize of £20. It must be gratifying to Mr Dalrymple, the Tramway manager, to find among his staff so many promising pipers, the Tramway Pipers Band being a good second and gaining a prize of £15. The third, fourth and fifth places respectively, were gained by Millhall Pipe Band, Lochgelly and Cowdenbeath bands.”
The results at Gordon Castle Games were, Piobaireachd: 1. PM MacDonald, Inverness; 2. PM D R MacLennan, Fort George; 3. L/Cpl Turnbull, 2nd Gordons and PM Matheson, Elgin, equal. Marches: 1. PM J MacDonald; 2. PM Matheson; 3. PM D R MacLennan and PM Reid, Aberdeen, equal. Strathspeys and Reels: 1. PM J MacDonald; 2. PM D R MacLennan; 3. PM Matheson. The judges for piping and dancing were Mr McLaughlan Smith, Lossiemouth; Captain Usher, OBE, 2nd Gordon Highlanders, Fort George; and the Rev R H Calder, Glenlivet. Rain fell incessantly all day.
Ballater Games was also marred by cold winds and heavy rain. The judges were the Rev R Robertson, Logie-Coldstone; James Robertson, Ballater; and Ewen, Aberdeen. Local Events. Marches, Strathspeys and Reels: 1. J McKenzie, Glentanar; 2. W Collie, Crathie; 3. Grace Ross, Aboyne, and W McGregor, Crathie, equal. Open Events. Marches: 1. Sgt Cruickshank, 5th Gordon Highlanders; 2. J McKenzie, Glentanar; 3. R Brown, Banchory. Strathspeys and Reels: 1. Sgt Cruickshank; 2. PM Ross; 3. R Brown.
At Hatton Games Messrs Reid, Knaperna, Slains and Taylor, Newburgh judged the piping and dancing. Marches: 1. PM W Cruickshank; 2. W Grant; 3. W Maitland. Strathspeys and Reels: 1. W Grant; 2. W Cruickshank; 3. W Maitland. 1. Piobaireachds: 1. PM W Cruickshank; 2. W Grant; 3. W Maitland and J Teunion equal.
At Laurencekirk the weather was excellent and the results were, Marches: 1. PM Ross, Edinburgh; 2. PM Ewing, Aberdeen; 3. Duthie. Strathspeys and Reels: 1. Ross; 2. Ewing; 3. Duthie. Piping Championship for Kincardineshire: T Lunan, Laurencekirk.
24th August
A memorial service was held in Inveraray on the second anniversary of the unveiling of the War Memorial. A large assemblage of the general public were present. Headed by the Castle Pipe Band, under Pipe Major George Mackenzie, the naval and military forces marched through the town. The parade proceeded at a slow march down the main street to the memorial where Lady Elspeth Campbell laid a wreath. Drummer John Campbell MM sounded the Last Post and Pipe Major Mackenzie and Pipe Corporal MacArthur played The Flowers of the Forest.
25th August
The Daily Record pictured Sir Torquil Munro of Lindertis with PM A McDonald Lamond of the Black Watch at Glenisla Gathering. Sir Torquil was receiving lessons from the Pipe Major.
DM Robertson of the MacKenzie Pipe Band was pictured in the Courier with boys from the Queen Victoria School.
Halkirk Highland Games was favoured with good weather. Music was discoursed during the afternoon by the Thurso Pipe Band. Results were, Marches: 1. PM Taylor, Drumblair; 2. John Macdonald, Achscrabster; 3. PM John Sutherland, Spittal. Reels and Strathspeys: 1. PM Taylor; 2. W Henderson, Bower; 3. PM Sutherland. Special prize to member of Club – PM Sutherland
26th August
At Bower Athletic Sports the piping and dancing was judged by Mr Swanson, East Watten. Marches: 1. PM Sutherland, Thurso; 2. Wm Henderson, Gillock; 3. J Macdonald, Achnasvast. Reels: 1. PM Sutherland; 2. Wm Henderson; 3. L Macdonald.
The Lochaber Gathering at Fort William took place in heavy rain. The pipe band of the Cameron Highlanders played at intervals. The results were, Piobaireachds: 1. PM Robert Reid; 2. PM D R MacLennan; 3. PM W Ross. Marches: 1. PM Ross; 2. PM Reid; 3. Pipe Sergeant J D Macdonald. Strathspeys and Reels: 1. PM Ross; 2. PM MacLennan; 3. P/Sgt Macdonald. Winners of the Championship Gold Medals – 1. PM Ross; 2. PM Reid.
Local Events. Marches: 1 and 2 equal. A Cameron and R Macdonald; 3. K Lawrie. Strathspeys and Reels: 1. R Macdonald; 2. D Kennedy; 3. K Lawrie. Champion Medal for local piper won by R Macdonald.
The Vale of Atholl pipe band under PM R Pirnie played at Braes of Rannoch Games. The judge for piping and dancing were Major F B Mackinlay. Local piping. Marches: 1. Piper Robertson. Strathspeys and Reels 1. Piper Robertson. Open piping. Marches: Piper R Irvine; 2. Piper Stewart. Strathspeys and Reels: 1. Piper Stewart; 2. Piper Irvine.
Indian Bagpipers
The Scotsman had this article: “Readers of Rudyard Kipling have his authority for believing that there is a close affinity between Highland soldiers and certain of the native Indian Regiments. There is, however, a surprise in store for most of the present visitors to Wembley Exhibition to find that at least one of the native regiments had adopted the characteristic instrument of the Scottish Highlanders, the bagpipes. The band of the 126th Baluchis was performing there this afternoon to the delight of a large audience. Evidently they have adopted the music as well as the instruments of the Highlands, for their programme consisted of familiar marches, reels and strathspeys, which were played with a liveliness in strange contrast to the solidity of expression on the dusky faces. The black bearded pipe major, brandishing his heavy silver mace, strutted in front of his band with a dignity that no Celt with a long pedigree could have surpassed. Dr Neil Munro has laid it down that ‘to the making of a piper go seven years of his own learning and seven generation before,’ but these players, whatever their own length of training, could claim no such preliminary preparation. I should add that the Baluchis have not adopted the kilt. They wear baggy crimson breeches with puttees, and the streamers on the drones of their bagpipes are crimson and yellow, to match the turbans of the players.”
27th August
At Juniper Green the fund raising parade in aide of Edinburgh Royal Infirmary was headed by Colinton and Currie Parishes Pipe Band, by kind permission of Pipe Major A Thomson.
Three well known pipers were pictured in the Aberdeen Press and Journal. They were PM John MacDonald, Inverness, PM D R MacLennan, Fort George and PM Matheson, Elgin.
Aonach Pipe Competitions
The Evening Telegraph had this: “A Chara, A fortnight has now elapsed since the above competitions were held, and no results have yet appeared, nor any explanation from those responsible for the delay. We have had it dinned into our ears that this was an attempt to revive the ancient Fair of Tailte; but if this is the way the ancients did their business, it is little wonder the sorry plight Irish music is in today. Here we have the oldest music of all that was brought together under the auspices of the Aonach treated with contempt by people who ought to be the first to see that the majestic music of the pipes should get its rightful place. Every means has been used by political partisans to persuade several of the pipe bands from competing at the Aonach, and it is poor recompense to be treated in such a shabby fashion. I may mention that the Secretary of the Musical Committee has been written to repeatedly on the matter, without the courtesy of an acknowledgement coming from him. It is this sort of procedure that is surely killing pipe music in Ireland. Piobaire.”
The war memorial commemorating the heroism of the men of Kildonan parish who fell in the Great War was unveiled at Helmsdale. The memorial, a beautiful clock tower, is erected in the Castle Park overlooking the village and river. The procession include the pipe band of the 4th/5th Seaforth Highlanders. Pipe Major John Campbell played the touching lament, Lochaber No More and the Last Post was sounded by Cpl A G Gordon, Helmsdale and L/Cpl R A Sutherland, Golspie.
In Dornoch the septcentenary of the foundation of the Cathedral was celebrated. A procession was headed by pipers went from the County buildings to the Cathedral. During the afternoon there were numerous stalls and sideshows. Musical selections were given by an orchestra under Mr W H Innes, and by a Pipe Band consisting of Pipe Major Ross, Beauly; Sgt Piper Grant, Pipers Angus Ross, S Murray, Bonar; W C Sutherland, J Sutherland, A Murray, Brora; Drummers R A Sutherland, J Dixon, Golspie; N Sutherland, G Baillie, and J Dixon, Brora.
Gala Day in Wick included a display team and pipers and drummers of the Seaforth Highlanders from Fort George. The judge for piping and dancing was Mr James Simpson. Marches (7 entries): 1. PM Taylor, Dunblane; 2. Pte Henderson, Bower; 3. Cpl Thomson and PM Sutherland, Osclay, equal. Strathspeys and Reels (7 entries): 1. PM Taylor; 2. Pte Henderson; 3. John Macdonald.
28th August
Freeman’s Journal had an update on the above story: “In the case of the Band Contests at the Tailteann Games it has been impossible until today to announce the names of the winning bands, owing to objections having been lodges in certain cases. These objections have been most carefully considered by the Musical Committee, and their findings were then put before the General Purposes Committee of the Tailteann Council, who upheld the decision of the adjudicator in every case except that of the military bands.”
The results then followed and were also published in several other papers: “Pipe Bands. Winners, St Laurence O’Toole’s Dublin; Lee Pipers, Cork, and St John’s Ambulance Band, Dublin, were adjudged equal in second place. Individual War Pipes. First Prixze, Richard Young, St John’s Ambulance Band, Dublin. Second in merit, F J Bigger-Hope, Belfast. The pipe band judge was Pipe Major Louis Noble.”
The Vale of Atholl Pipe Band, PM Robert Pirnie, played at a garden fete and sale of work in the grounds of Faskally House is aid of the Irvine Memorial nursing home in Pitlochry.
Skye Games were held at Portree with the weather on the whole favourable. Results were, Piobaireachds: 1. PM John MacDonald, Inverness; 2. PM Young, Cameron Highlanders; 3. PM MacLennan, Seaforths; 4. PM Macdonald, Scots Guards. Marches: 1. Pm MacLennan, Seaforths; 2. PM John MacDonald, Inverness; 3. PM Macdonald, Scots Guards; 4. M R Macpherson, Invershin. Strathspeys and Reels: 1. PM John MacDonald, Inverness; 2. PM John Macdonald, Scots Guards; 3. PM MacLennan, Seaforths; 4. M R Macpherson.
Local Marches: 1. D Campbell, Camerons; 2. J McInnes, Portree; 3. Piper MacKenzie; Camerons; 4. A MacLeod, Struan.
29th August
At Thurso Gala there was a piping competition for Marches. The result was 1. PM W Taylor, Dunblane; 2. Piper Gordon Asher, Thurso; 3. Piper John Macdonald, Achnavast.
The Stonehouse pipe band, under PM G McDonald, played the following programme in the Market Square at 7.30pm in the evening:
- March. Colonel Forbes of Inverernan’s March.
- March. Campbell’s Farewell to Redcastle.
- Strathspey. The Inverness Rant.
- Reel. Miss Girdle’s Reel.
- March. Miss Dorothy Stewart’s March.
- March. The Glendaruel Highlanders.
- Strathspey. Louden’s Bonnie Woods and Braes.
- Reel. The Piper of Drummond’s Rant.
- March. The Hills of Glenorchy.
- March. 79th’s Farewell to Gibraltar.
- Strathspey. Braes o’ Mar.
- Reel. The Eight Men of Moidart.
- The Highland Laddie.“
In a preview to the Cowal Gathering, the Edinburgh Evening News reported that 48 bands would be playing, representing all classes of military, civilian, police and Boys’ Brigade combinations, from all parts of Scotland and including representatives from Ireland. In the massed band parade over 1,000 pipers and drummers would take part.
Earlier in 1924 the promoters of the Wembley Empire Exhibition had invited the Cowal Committee to hold the Gathering in London instead of in Dunoon. This was not a popular suggestion but the athletes, solo competitors and bands expressed willingness to attend a second gathering in London. Various plans were made, such as using a fleet of ships with accommodation on board to transport everyone to the Thames but due to the difficulty and expense involved in getting to competitors to London and providing accommodation for them the plan was abandoned. There was a great deal of publicity and one London paper published a cartoon depicting the Duke of Argyll at the helm of the ‘Galley of Lorne’ with a crew of kilted and be-whiskered Highlanders sailing up the Thames with Tower bridge in the distance.
The Nairnshire Telegraph reported: “Favoured with better weather than when they paid a former visit the Nairn, the pipe band of the Seaforth Highlanders, Fort George, under Pipe Major D R MacLennan, submitted a delightful programme to a large audience at the Links on Friday evening. The lively and attractive selections by the pipers were enjoyed by old and young.”
The Oban Times reported that Theodore Napier of Magdala, Melbourne and of Balmanno, West Castle Road, Edinburgh, died on 29th August in Australia, aged 79. He was well known in Edinburgh for his picturesque attire, wearing the garb of a feudal Highlander. He not only adopted the kilt as every day dress, but wore the lace of an earlier period and a cap decorated with a jaunty feather. He was a member of the St Andrew Society, a patriotic Scotsman, an ardent Nationalist and the Chieftain of the Highland Pipers’ Society of Edinburgh.
At the Cowal Gathering in Dunoon the weather on Friday according to the Edinburgh Evening News was dull and the rain while not heavy was continuous. The solo piping results on Friday were, Piobaireachd: 1. PM William Ross; 2. PM Robert Reid; 3. John MacDonald, Glasgow Police. March: 1. W Ross; 2. R Reid; 3. Charles McEachern, Islay; 4. John MacDonald. Strathspey and Reel: 1. W Ross; 2. John MacDonald; 3. George Yardley, Cambuslang; 4. R Reid. Best Dressed playing piper: 1. W Ross; 2. Charles Jeffrey, 8th Argylls; 3. George Yardley. Juvenile March: 1. Neil Henderson, 8th Argylls; 2. Alex Leask, Dunoon; 3. J S C Smith, Dunoon. Open MSR under 16: 1. Ian Cameron, Islay; 2. Alex MacLeod, Glasgow; 3. John Kerr, Fallin; 4. Peter MacCallum, Campbeltown.
30th August
The Daily Record reported: “So far as the weather was concerned the bad luck of previous years did not follow the Cowal Games at Dunoon on Saturday. Although the morning was wet, the sun, before the start, shone in all its splendour on a remarkable spectacle of about a thousand pipers pitted against one another for the world’s championship and many trophies.
“The great attraction before the games began was at the Castle Gardens, where the pipe bands assembled and tuned up, then marched from there to the recreation park. Among those present at the games were Lady Elspeth Campbell, Sir Harry Lauder and Lady Lauder, Sir William Sutherland MP and Lady Sutherland, Colonel Walter Scott (New York), and his daughter Mrs Edith Scott Magnus, Mr J Graham Campbell of Shirvan, Lt Colonel Ian Campbell, ex-Baillie A Campbell, Colonel Bonnerie Campbell, Wyndham Long, Major A J M Bennett, Count Councillor G H McNeal, Provost Ferguson, Major W Allan, etc.”
Colonel Walter Scott was a New York millionaire. He had gifted a shield and two special prizes to the gathering. Colonel Scott had formed many pipe bands in the United States and each year gave five hundred prizes for piping, dancing and costumes.
Solo results on Saturday were, Burgh Cup, Local MSR: 1. John C Johnston, Glasgow; 2. Hugh Kennedy, Tiree; 3. Neil McNicol, Clydebank; 4. Ronald MacCallum, Campbeltown. Drumchapel Trophy, Piobaireachd under 18: 1. John Murray, Chapelhall; 2. John Kinnaid, Springburn; 3. Lachlan Barron, Glasgow; 4. Ronald Macdonald, Renton.
For the band contests the Daily Record reported: “There was great interest taken in the competition for the Daily Record Challenge Trophy and medals, confined to bands who had never won a prize at the Cowal Games. There were 28 bands entered, and the honour of winning the trophy went to the MacLean Pipe Band, with the McKenzie tartan, Pipe Major William Sloan. The prizes and trophies were gracefully handed over by Lady Elspeth Campbell, and remarks were made by Sir Harry Lauder, Colonel Scott, Lt Col Campbell, Councillor McNeal and others.’
The results of the band competitions were reported fully in the Oban Times. There were 48 bands competing.
Juvenile Band Contest No 1. Glasgow News Shield: 1. Dalmuir Parish; 2. 139th Glasgow Coy BB; 3. 174th Glasgow Coy BB.
Juvenile Contest No 2, Crosher Challenge Trophy: 1. Dalmuir Parish; 2. 174th Glasgow Coy BB; 3. Polmont War Memorial Boys’ Band.
Civilian Band Contest No 1. Sir Harry Lauder Shield: 1. Clan MacRae Society, PM William Fergusson; 2. Millhall, PM George D MacDonald; 3. Singer’s Pipe Band, PM David S Gray; 4. MacLean Pipe Band, PM William Sloan.
Civilian Band Contest No 2. Daily Record Trophy: 1. MacLean Pipe Band; 2. 2. Dalzell, PM Alex Hastie; 3. Dalmuir Parish (senior), PM K McLennan; 4. Lochgelly Public Pipe Band.
World’s Championship. Argyll Shield: 1. Millhall Pipe Band, Pipe Major David Lamont; 2. Clan MacRae Society; 3. 7th Batt HLI, PM Robert Reid; 4. Singer’s Pipe Band.
Territorial Band Contest. Campbell Trophy: 1. 7th Batt HLI; 2. 5th Batt HLI, PM Archd McPhedran; 3. 8th Batt Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, PM John MacLellan DCM.
Polmont’s success was reported in their local paper: “Polmont War Memorial Boys’ Pipe Band, who recently won the Alloa Championship Cup, travelled to Dunoon on Saturday and took part in the contest at Cowal Games. Thirteen juvenile bands competed, and the Polmont boys, who played under the leadership of Pipe Major Willie Stoddart, were successful in securing third place, with custody of the Yare trophy. Gold medals were awarded each of the members, two of whom played under severe physical difficulties, one having lost the tip of a finger the week previous, while another injured his hand at work the day prior to the games, and had to have six stitches put in it. The band, who secured 95 points out of a possible total of 100, received full marks for drumming and marching. The following boys received medals: Pipe-Major W Stoddart, Sergt W Jack, Leading Drummer W Morrison, Drummers McCrae, Blow and J Morrison; and Pipers K McCrae, Hope, A Findlay, T Brown and R Morrison and A Morrison.
Following Millhall’s success at Cowal the Bridge of Allan Gazette had this article: “On Saturday last the Millhall Pipe Band travelled to Cowal Highland Gathering, Dunoon, where the greatest Pipe Band Contest is held every season. 48 bands were entered for the various contests on Saturday. In the open band contest, 23 bands competing, Millhall gained first place, thus putting to their credit the championship of the world – the Argyll Shield, gold medals and £10. In the civilian Band contest, 28 bands competing, Millhall gained second prize – the Graham Moffat Cup, silver medals and £4.
“A crowd of about 1,000 well-wishers awaited the arrival of the late train at Stirling on which the band was travelling, and it received a great reception when it came out of the Station buildings. Although the hour was pretty late, the Band played through Murray Place and Port Street to Dumbarton Road, as per usual.
“The above contest is the last of the season, and the following are previous honours gained by the Millhall Band this year:
Alloa – 1st prize and silver cup.
Greenock – 1st prize and gold cup, and gold medals.
Comrie – 3rd prize.
Grangemouth – 1st prize and silver cup.
Lanark – 2nd prize.
Inverkeithing – 1st prize and shield.
Birnam – 3rd prize.
The above trophies will be shown in a prominent shop window in Stirling at an early date.”
The Pumpherston Pipe Band did not go to Cowal but held their first annual excursion on that day, when a company of about 70 travelled per motor bus to Galashiels. They left the Store Corner at 8 o’clock, prior to which the band paraded the village. The weather during the whole day was delightful, and a pleasant time was spent sight-seeing. The company arrived home shortly after 10 o’clock.
At Craigievar Games, held on the same day as Cowal, the piping and dancing was judged by Lord Sempill, Craigievar; PM Mann, Aberdeen; Mr E Ewen, Aberdeen; the Rev R Robertson, Logie-Coldstone; and Mr J Michie, Cairnbeathie, Lumphanan. Marches: 1. Sgt G Cruickshank; 2. J McKenzie, Inverness; 3. R Brown, Banchory. Strathspey and Reel: 1. Sgt G Cruickshank; 2. R Brown; 3. J McKenzie.
Piobaireachd
This advertisement appeared in the Oban Times: “An enthusiastic amateur has in contemplation the publication of a Collection of Tunes. He is anxious to meet recent complaints as to accent etc., in the case of some Published Versions, and would therefore be only too glad to hear from any Player or Enthusiast regarding any Tune where any published version is deemed incorrect in any respect whatever (including name). He would be specially interested to have comments or suggestions regarding Tunes incomplete as regards Metre etc. He will also be glad to receive Mss of any Old Tunes not hitherto published. Any information given or comment made will, if desired, be deemed strictly confidential. Any communication addressed “Piobaireachd,” c/o Editor, Oban Times Office, will be forwarded.”
A party of 40 boys from the Queen Victoria School, under the command of CSM McCubbin, DCM and Sgt Major Scotland, DCM, visited Dundee. They were met at the East Station by the Mackenzie Pipe Band, led by Drum Major John Robertson and Pipe Major James Mackenzie. A fair sized crowd of spectators witnessed the boys, headed by the band, march off to the premises of the Seaforth Club in Park Place, by way of Murraygate and High Street, and they attracted a great deal of attention in the streets.
“On arrival at the Club the boys were at once supplied with light refreshment. Afterwards, on a platform adjoining the premises, and before an appreciative audience of club members and the public, several of the little Highlanders gave a smart and highly creditable display of Highland dancing and gymnastics. Indian club exercises to the music of the bagpipes proved an enjoyable novelty. Boy Pipe Major Kean provided the music. Members of Miss Alice Fox’s Balmoral Troupe of Dancers, conspicuous among whom was little Willie Angus, all contributed much appreciated dances.
“An adjournment was made for tea. A concert was then given, the following contributing songs: Mr W Keay, Mr J Kidd, and Miss Craig, who also acted as accompanist at the piano. The diminutive Willie Angus gave imitations of Harry Lauder and was accorded an enthusiastic reception. Mr D McTaggart, the popular Secretary of the Seaforth Association, who has worked wholeheartedly for its interests was prevailed upon to sing, and he rendered Stop yer Tickling, Jock in Gaelic, amid applause and laughter.”