Stuart Samson piped for The King yesterday at The Gordon Highlanders Museum

by Fraser Maitland, President of The Aberdeen Piping Society

The Aberdeen Piping Society (TAPS) was honoured to share their success with His Majesty The King at The Gordon Highlanders Museum, Aberdeen on Jan 20, 2025. The King was there to meet a 99-year-old D-Day veteran of the regiment. His visit provoked an intimate exchange amongst volunteers and staff at this magnificent venue.

Stuart Samson (Former PM of The Gordon Highlanders) was on duty to pipe The King on his arrival and exit. Despite the cold temperatures, a fine rendition of Cock of the North and The Gordon’s March echoed throughout the museum. 

The Aberdeen Piping Society (TAPS) established 2023 has a simple aim – to encourage and nurture the playing of the Great Highland Bagpipe. Our 35+ members of all ages and experience, meet up regularly to play pipes, and share stories. 

Despite being a young organisation, we’ve provided two new trophies for local events, including the creation of a new junior Piobaireachd competition at the Aberdeen Highland Games (the first in its history), provided judging capacity at local Highland and indoor events, and supported a new series of professional piping recitals held at The Gordon Highlanders Museum, which is putting our national instrument back in the local spotlight. 

Stuart and Fraser Maitland (President, TAPS) had the unique and rare pleasure of meeting The King in The Gallery, overlooked by paintings of officers and pipers of historical importance. His Majesty’s interest in bagpiping was apparent and genuine. He asked many pointed questions, including what tie Fraser was wearing (The Piobaireachd Society Tie), and was intrigued how TAPS is helping to shape and ensure local piping continues flourishes. He was indeed impressed, as we were with his knowledge of our instrument. 

There was extraordinary historical artefacts on show for The King, including a kilt from the Battle of the Somme with mud from the battlefield.

Truly a special day for TAPS, The Museum, and Aberdeen and a highlight reel is provided below.  The day was organised meticulously by John McLeish and his team – congratulations to everyone involved.