An International Conversation on Leadership, Belonging & Healthy Pipe Band Cultures
Following Dr Sandy Geyer’s article, ‘I Had No Idea – Belonging, Silence and Healthy Pipe Band Cultures’, this forum on Sunday, August 2, brings together respected leaders from five countries for an open conversation about the human side of pipe bands. Rather than focusing solely on musical excellence, the discussion explores the leadership behaviours that help people feel they belong, contribute confidently and flourish within healthy pipe band cultures.
The forum combines leadership research, lived experience and practical discussion. It is designed to leave attendees with ideas they can immediately apply within their own bands and organisations.
Who Should Attend
Pipe Majors • Drum Majors • Tutors • Committee Members • Players • Parents • Supporters • Anyone passionate about building healthy, high-performing pipe band communities.
Topics We’ll Explore
- Psychological safety and belonging
- Leadership beyond musical excellence
- Loyalty, accountability and difficult conversations
- Why members experience the same band differently
- Creating cultures where people thrive
- Practical leadership ideas that strengthen both people and performance
Registration
Registration link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_uGQa5MxdSsGsKfYuhXSyWw
Date & Time
Sunday 2 August
• Scotland – 7:00 pm
• South Africa – 8:00 pm
• US Eastern – 2:00 pm
• US Pacific – 11:00 am
New Zealand – 6:00 am ( Monday 3 August 2026)
Duration: 90 minutes
Speaker Panel Profiles
Dr Sandy Geyer (New Zealand / South Africa)
Leadership Researcher | Author | Creator of McPersonalities
International leadership researcher, author and speaker whose work explores leadership, human behaviour, belonging and organisational culture. Her recent article on healthy pipe band cultures sparked this international conversation.
Perspective: Leadership research, psychological safety, belonging, courageous conversations and practical frameworks for healthier pipe band cultures.
Rory Bellingan (South Africa)
President, Pipe Band Association of Southern Africa | Pipe Major | Tutor | Adjudicator
Rory has devoted almost five decades to piping as a Pipe Major, tutor, adjudicator and national leader. He has led bands at World Championship level while mentoring generations of musicians throughout Southern Africa.
Perspective: Balancing tradition with changing expectations while creating environments where every member feels respected, valued and connected.
Dr. Patrick Regan (USA)
Professional Competitor | Adjudicator | Tutor
Patrick’s doctoral research includes a significant section examining women’s experiences within the pipe band community in the Eastern United States.
Perspective: Research-based insights into belonging, participation and inclusion.
Dr Carole Smith (Canada)
Grade 1 Solo Piper | Chiropractor | Founding Member, McLassie Highlanders
With more than forty years in piping, Carole combines elite solo and band experience with a career helping musicians remain healthy and perform at their best. She is passionate about creating welcoming environments where musicians flourish.
Perspective: Supporting people on and off the practice field while building cultures that attract, retain and develop musicians.
Corey Tillyer (Canada)
Pipe Major | Leadership Educator
Corey has played bagpipes since childhood, competed with leading Canadian pipe bands, serves as Pipe Major of the Delta Police Pipe Band and performed with the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Pipes and Drums. She also holds a Master of Arts in Leadership and Training.
Perspective: Applying contemporary leadership principles to high-performing musical organisations.
Meleana Eade (New Zealand)
Pipe Major | Tutor | Leadership Mentor
Meleana has been Pipe Major of Hamilton Caledonian for ten years, previously competing with Manawatu Scottish including a World Championships tour, and has taught piping for more than twenty-two years.
Perspective: Developing inclusive, nurturing environments where people are encouraged to pursue excellence while enjoying the journey together.
Anna Smart (Scotland)
Grade 1 Piper | Musician | Mentor
Anna is recognised as one of Scotland’s outstanding young pipers and an inspiring role model for the next generation. She is passionate about making piping welcoming, accessible and exciting while respecting the traditions that make the art unique.
Perspective: Showing how tradition, excellence and accessibility can work together to inspire future generations of pipers.
Why This Panel is Unique
Rather than presenting a single viewpoint, this forum intentionally brings together researchers, Pipe Majors, educators, performers and organisational leaders from across the international pipe band community. Each panelist offers a different lens on leadership, creating a richer and more balanced conversation than any one presenter could provide.
About the International Pipe Band Leadership Forum
The International Pipe Band Leadership Forum is an emerging series of conversations exploring the leadership, culture and human dynamics that shape successful pipe bands. By combining leadership research with practical experience from respected international voices, the forum aims to strengthen both people and performance throughout the global pipe band community.