January 25, 2026, marked a historic moment in China’s piping scene as the inaugural professional solo bagpipe championship was held in Guangzhou, aptly coinciding with Burns Night celebrations. The event drew pipers from across the Greater Bay Area—including Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao—as well as competitors from Shanghai and as far as Malaysia.
Organised by the University of Glasgow Guangzhou Alumni, in partnership with China Bagpipe—a venture founded by Guangzhou-based piper Bohan Cheng—and supported by Catriona Radcliffe, Head of the Scottish Government Office in China, the championship turned into a vibrant celebration of Scottish music and culture on Chinese soil.
The judging panel featured esteemed figures in the regional piping community: Pipe Major Cary Chung, former leader of the Hong Kong Auxiliary Police Pipe Band, and Tony Ma, Pipe Major of Hong Kong’s Oriental Pipes and Drums and a Trial Judge for Pipe Bands Australia.
Participants reflected the growing enthusiasm for bagpiping in China and beyond. Among them were promising mainland newcomers such as Khalessi Chen from the Nord Anglia Chinese International School, Shanghai Youth Pipe Band—China’s first youth pipe band—alongside experienced international players like Ronnie Hein and Pipe Major Inderjit Singh, both from Malaysia.
Despite piping still being a developing art in mainland China, where regular access to instructors and Highland traditions can be limited, contestants displayed notable dedication and skill. Many Chinese pipers balance training with academic or professional commitments, often relying on digital resources and occasional workshops to refine their technique.
“It’s thrilling to see solo competitive piping take root here,” said organizer Bohan Cheng. “Bringing together local talent with overseas players on Burns Night has created something truly special.”
Following the competition, attendees joined in a traditional Burns Supper, complete with hearty food, poetry recitals, singing, and dancing—blending Scottish heritage seamlessly with Guangzhou’s cosmopolitan atmosphere.
The event was widely praised for its organization and warm community spirit, signalling a promising future for competitive piping in China.
The results were:
Novice Grade
1st – Howell Tse (Hong Kong)
2nd – Khalessi Chen (Shanghai)
3rd – Zeng Si Ao (Shenzhen) & Zhang Zhi Tian (Macau University of Science and Technology)
Open Grade
1st – Ronnie Hein (Malaysia)
2nd – Joseph (Hong Kong)
3rd – Inderjit Singh (Malaysia)