Opportunity opens for new leadership
Johnstone Pipe Band have announced that Gavin Orr will resign from his position as Leading Drummer at the conclusion of the 2025 competitive season. Gavin joined the band in November 2022 and immediately brought a significant change to the band’s musical direction. Under his leadership, the band’s performances have steadily improved – strengthening the band’s standing within the top grade.
Gavin remains fully committed and focused through the end of the season and the band are aiming for a smooth and professional transition.
Gavin Orr said: “I am extremely proud of what the band and drum corps have accomplished during my time here. This was a difficult decision, but one I felt was necessary. It has been a privilege to lead and develop our drum corps and I am deeply grateful to every player for their commitment and dedication they have shown me.
“I want to especially thank Pipe Major Donald Mackay for his support and guidance throughout my tenure. It has been an honour to work alongside such a respected and accomplished leader. I remain fully committed to delivering our best performances this season and look forward to making great music together. I wish the band continued success in the future.”
Pipe Major Donald Mackay said: “All of us here at the Johnstone Pipe Band organisation would like to sincerely thank Gavin for everything he’s brought to the band. His leadership, dedication and musicality have played a major role in our development and it has been a pleasure working alongside him. We fully respect his decision and are grateful he remains focused and committed to finishing the season strong. As we look ahead, this opens an exciting opportunity for a new Leading Drummer to join a focused and ambitious team. We are aiming for a smooth and professional transition and look forward to building on the foundations Gavin has helped create.”
The band is now inviting applications from experienced and motivated drummers who are ready to take on a pivotal leadership role within a highly competitive and forward-thinking pipe band. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future direction of the drum corps and work alongside a dedicated team committed to excellence and growth.
All enquiries and applications will be treated with the utmost confidentiality and discretion. Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their CV to Pipe Major Donald Mackay at pipemajor.jpb@outlook.com and can receive further information about the role, the band’s vision and the next steps in the selection process.