At a prestigious civic ceremony held recently in Glasgow’s City Chambers, one of Scotland’s most influential musicians, Chris Armstrong, was awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) by Depute Lord Lieutenant Rajan Madhok, on behalf of His Majesty The King. The honour, part of the 2024 King’s New Year’s Honours, celebrates Armstrong’s remarkable contributions to the world of piping.
The BEM recognises Chris Armstrong’s nearly 40-year career as a world-renowned performer, composer, teacher, pipe major, and innovator in bagpipe music. His trailblazing work has elevated the art form, inspiring generations of musicians and cementing his legacy as a pivotal figure in Scottish cultural heritage.
Chris, originally from Boghall, in Bathgate, but now living in the southside of Glasgow, first heard the ‘skirl’ of the pipes, at a local gala day. From that day he was smitten with the sound. He said, “From as early as five I knew this was what I wanted to do. The spectacle of seeing the pipe band playing at the local gala-day, really captivated me.” It would be another year of haranguing his parents before he first picked up the practice chanter, aged six, and from there an impressive musical career beckoned.
He has won the highest of accolades as a soloist and a pipe major. From winning the Highland Society of London’s gold medal to directing the ScottishPower pipe band, which he’s led for 20 years, to championship victories and sell-out concerts. His solo accolades include the Bratach Gorm – at the Scottish Piping Society of London’s premier bagpipe competition, placings at the Pipe Major Donald MacLeod memorial competition, and the J.B. Robertson Rose Bowl, among many others.
But it’s not just about trophies. Chris has redefined what it means to be a modern piper—blending global genres, embracing technology, and publishing groundbreaking compositions that have reached musicians globally. He regularly incorporates other instruments and genres from all over the world into his performances and compositions, reaching people with no previous interest in piping.
Chris’s musical influence extends far beyond Scotland. He has delivered workshops across Europe, the United States, New Zealand, and Northern Ireland. His entrepreneurial ventures, including the launch of Xtreme drone reeds and collaborations with leading bagpipe makers, have set new standards for sustainability and innovation in instrument design.
Now teaching across schools in East Ayrshire, Chris continues to shape the future of piping with the same energy and vision that has defined his career.
Rajan Madhok, Depute Lord Lieutenant, praised Chris’ impact in the world of Scottish music: He said: “Chris is a true ambassador for Glasgow and for Scotland. His passion, creativity, and commitment to excellence have elevated piping on the world stage. He’s not only preserved a tradition, but he’s transformed it. This honour is richly deserved.”
Making it a family affair Chris was joined by his partner Emma, daughter Piper, as well as his proud parents and sister.
Chris said: “I am truly humbled to be recognised in this way and delighted to be receiving this award. I’m lucky enough to be doing something which I love, am passionate about and having the musical career that I have enjoyed so far. Now, I get the pleasure of encouraging the next generation of bagpipe musicians and supporting them on their future careers.”