Bagpipe News

Film Debut and Performance — Routes: Concept, Creation & Capture
2024-03-07 19:00 - 22:00 (Europe/London) | The National Piping Centre, 30-34 McPhater Street, Glasgow, G4 0HW, United Kingdom
Join Routes String Quartet as they debut their new film, and then will perform live at The National Piping Centre.
“Routes: Concept, Creation & Capture” is a film by Paul Jennings that follows the unique creative process of Scotland’s Trad. String Quartet, The Routes Quartet as they create, develop and record their recent release, ‘Arche’ [Ar:ki]. The classical string quartet is a highly refined ensemble. One that members devote enormous time and care curating; ensuring that the interpretation of composers’ music is executed with virtuosic precision. Traditional musicians meanwhile strive for individual style, compose their own tunes, informed by geographical idioms and pride themselves on being distinctive. However, at the heart of these two worlds lies a compelling commonality – intimacy and emotion. Both demanding the utmost of communication and empathy between players.
So how does this play out, when string quartet ensemble meets a Trad. approach? Can this marriage create a new distinctive blend? Can the compositions form a creative, emotive outlet which keeps the Traditional tune writing concept at its core? And can all this be recorded in a way that does not lose the essence of the intimate sound? This film explores this process; under guidance from string specialist producer, Greg Lawson and sound specialist producer, David Donaldson. Follow The Routes Quartet as they embark on this unique quest to satisfyingly combine these genres with the required intimacy and emotion from these two giants of culture.
The film will be followed by a Q&A session and a live performance of ‘Arche’ by The Routes String Quartet is a string quartet with a difference; made up of traditional folk musicians, Routes writes and performs a combination of contemporary compositions and innovative arrangements of traditional music. The ensemble bridges the gap between classical and folk music; exploring the vast textures, tones and intimate musical qualities which are characteristic of a string quartet, but with a folksy, rootsy accent.
The quartet’s music is an exquisite blend of folk, classical and fiddle traditions, featuring evocative arrangements of folk tunes and stunning original compositions. The Routes Quartet is made up of the classic string quartet instrumentation of cello (Rufus Huggan), viola (Emma Tomlinson), and two fiddles (David Lombardi and Madeleine Stewart).
With a love of Scottish music, Routes bring different approaches from classical, blues and Scandinavian influences to combine with their original compositions and arrangements of existing tunes.

Doors 7.00pm: Start 7.30pm

International Bagpipe Day and Conference
2024-03-08 - 2024-03-10 | KS
The International Bagpipe Organisation warmly invites you to attend the Seventh International Bagpipe Conference (IBC) to mark International Bagpipe Day 2024 (10 March), a celebration of the world’s diverse bagpipes and bagpiping traditions. This year’s conference is organised in collaboration with the Bulgarian National ​Bagpipe Association and the Academy of Music, Dance, and Fine Art in Plovdiv, Bulgaria. We have confirmed speakers from Spain, Greece, UK, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Singapore, USA, France, Belgium, and Bulgaria.
https://www.internationalbagpipeorganisation.com/2024—plovdiv.html

Fraser Fifield: One Great Circle - album launch
2024-03-09 19:30 - 22:30 (Europe/London) | The National Piping Centre, 30-34 McPhater Street, Glasgow, G4 0HW, United Kingdom
Fraser Fifield has written a striking collection of new music to perform with his long-term friends, the acclaimed instrumental duo, Chris Stout and Catriona McKay. Part of Fraser’s output as Artist in Residence for the School of Scottish Studies, University of Edinburgh, One Great Circle is inspired by the supernatural stories of Stanley Robertson (1940-2009, storyteller, singer, member of the Travelling community of NE Scotland) which blur distinctions between real and unreal. Robertson’s recorded voice further lends atmosphere to the live performance.
Join us as they launch the album on this special night of music.
This album has been supported by TASGADH Small Arts Grants and Creative Scotland

Doors 7.30pm: Concert Start 8.00pm at The National Piping Centre, McPhater Street
The album can be purchased and downloaded here

Accents: Voicing the pipes concert
2024-03-14 19:00 - 22:30 (Europe/London) | The National Piping Centre, 30-34 McPhater Street, Glasgow, G4 0HW, United Kingdom
The National Piping Centre presents: Accents, an evening of diverse music from the Scottish piping repertoire featuring some of Scotland’s top trad musicians including Gary West from Enjoy Your Piping with Gary West, fiddler Eryn Rae, and pipers Fionnlagh Mac A Phiocair, Calum Kaye and Sarah Muir.

Tickets available here: https://www.thepipingcentre.co.uk/visit/concerts/concerts

Australian Pipe Band Championships 2024
2024-04-13 | Princes Park, Maryborough, Victoria, Australia
The 2024 Australia Pipe Band Championships will be hosted by the Victoria branch of Pipe Bands Australia and held on April 13, 2024.
The first Australian Championships were held in Maryborough, Victoria in 1961 making this, the 62nd annual gathering even more significant as the event returns to Maryborough.
The pipe band contest shall include:

Grade 1
Grade 2
Frade 3
Grade 4A
Grade 4B
Novice A
Novice B
Drum Major Solo Competition

Open
Juvenile

A prize pool can be viewed here.
The Event will Include:

A street parade led by the current Australian Drum Major Champion, Dominic Andersen-Strudwick
2x International Adjudicators from Scotland
The Australian Drum Major Championships

All of which will culminate in post championship event at the Maryborough Highland Society from 5:30pm and scheduled to include impromptu piping and drumming performances on stage.

The World Amateur Champion of Champions Solo Piping Competition 2024
2024-04-27 | Online Zoom, United States
The World Amateur Champion of Champions Solo Piping Competition
Run by The CLASP.
Competition date – 27th April 2024
The Competition League for Amateur Solo Pipers (The CLASP) was set up by The National Piping Centre in 2003 to give adult amateur pipers a competition platform to compete on, through a series of grading competitions held yearly throughout Scotland and the UK. In its 20 years, CLASP has evolved, gaining a global membership base. To celebrate this 20 year milestone, CLASP is working with other amateur events across the world to create a premier solo piping competition. The inaugural World Amateur Champion of Champions Solo Piping Competition is an invitational contest, which will feature the top 10 amateur pipers selected from qualifying events across the globe. This event has been generously sponsored by David Naill Bagpipes, who have donated a set of engraved nickel DN2E Bagpipes as the prize for the overall winner of the event.
Whilst CLASP qualifying events are for CLASP members, 18 years and above, other qualifying events do not have an age restriction. For events out with the CLASP system, any qualifying competitor who is under 18 will be invited to take part.

To create a top level amateur competition, CLASP have set up an international panel, which will monitor and advise and ensure the top amateur pipers in the world can be selected from the appropriate qualifying competitions worldwide. Pipers will be required to play in both Piobaireachd and an MSR discipline. Special thank you to Bob Worrall who has assisted with the North American qualifying events.
The 10 Qualifying events will be awarded as follows to the Grade 1 overall Champions:

Glengarry Highland Games, Maxville – North American Championships – 4th August 2023 (In-person event) – Qualifier – Gillian Blaney (Canada)
The World Solo Amateur Piping Competition @ Piping Live! 2023, Glasgow. – August 2023 (In-person event) – Jean-Sébastien Gamache (Canada)
The Nicol Brown – November 2023 (In-person Event) – Colin Forrest (Canada)
George Sherriff – November 2023 (In-person Event) -TBC
The CLASP ‘Live Online’ November 2023 (Online) – Brady Webb (Canada)
The Sun Belt in Florida November 2023 (In-person Event) –
Winter Storm – January 2024 (In-person Event)-TBC
The CLASP ‘Live Online’ 3rd Feb 2024 – Overall Grade 1 winner (Online Event) – TBC
Metro Cup – 10th Feb 2024 (In-person Event) – TBC
The BC Indoor Competition – April 2024- Overall Grade 1 winner (In-person Event) -TBC

For any duplicate winners, the panel will decide on the piper(s) who will fill the place and will look at other prize winners in the lists. For example we may look at an association’s overall league table where the standard has been particularly competitive.

The CLASP will host the event ‘live’ using a Zoom platform. Qualifying pipers will work with event organisers to set up a good quality audio stream to give audience members a good quality experience. The competitors will video record their ‘live performance’ and send it to theclasp@thepipingcentre.co.uk on the competition day.

This event is open to audience members across the world. Register in advance to watch the stream live through zoom, on the day of the event. The event will be compered on the day by Bob Worrall. To tune in live, audience members need to book their ticket via this link:
https://www.thebagpipeshop.co.uk/products/the-world-amateur-champion-of-champions-solo-piping-competition-2024
Tickets are £5.
The results will be announced a few days after the event, live via The CLASP Facebook page.

Pentecôte en Kilt au Tréport
2024-05-18 - 2024-05-19 | Mers les Bains, Hauts-de-France, France
Highland Games in Mers les Bains and Tréport – in the Somme department of Hauts-de-France in northern France. Hosted by Normandy Highlands Pipe Band.
https://www.facebook.com/rassemblementceltique

UK Pipe Band Championships in Bangor, 2024
2024-05-18 | Ward Park, Bangor., Hamilton Road, Bangor, Northern Ireland, BT20, United Kingdom
RSPBA Press Release, February 2024
The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association announce the UK Pipe Band Championship on the 18th May 2024 in Bangor, Northern Ireland. This is a significant event in the world of pipe bands, it attracts pipe bands from across Northern Ireland, Ireland, Great Britain, and sometimes even further afield. The championship offers various categories for bands of different grades, with each grade representing a different level of proficiency and competition.
These events are not only competitions but also gatherings for enthusiasts of traditional Scottish music, featuring performances, workshops, and opportunities for camaraderie among musicians and spectators alike. Bangor, a coastal city in County Down, provides a picturesque backdrop for the event, attracting visitors and participants to its scenic shores.
The championship serves as both a showcase of musical talent and a celebration of cultural heritage, highlighting the rich tradition of pipe bands in Northern Ireland and beyond. It offers a platform for bands to demonstrate their skill and dedication while fostering a sense of community among participants and spectators.
The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association Chairman, Kevin Reilly, said: “We have worked extremely hard to continue the tradition of Northern Ireland hosting the UK Championship. We are excited to be working with our new host, Ards and North Down Borough Council who has made it possible. Our thanks also goes to The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association Northern Ireland for their tireless effort to make this a reality.”
https://rspba.org/news/

CLASP in-person competition
2024-06-01 | The National Piping Centre, 30-34 McPhater Street, Glasgow, G4 0HW, United Kingdom
Saturday 1st June 2024 (NPC Cowcaddens) In-person Competition.
For adult amateur pipers graded 1, 2 & 3. *Pipers graded 4 can play up in grade 3 events.
* Entries will close on Thursday 23rd May

Events on offer will be as follows:
Grade 1:
Piobaireachd (Submit 2 tunes from set list 1 and one tune of choice) https://theclasp.co.uk/set-tunes/#setlist2023
2/4 March (Submit 2 tunes -Min 4 parts)
Strathspey & Reel (Submit 2 tunes-Min 4 parts)
6/8 March (Own Choice)
Grade 2
Piobaireachd (Submit 2 tunes from set list 1 and one tune from set list 2) https://theclasp.co.uk/set-tunes/#setlist2023https://theclasp.co.uk/set-tunes/#setlist2023
2/4 March (Submit 2 tunes -Min 4 parts)
Strathspey & Reel (Own Choice)
Jig (Own Choice)
Grade 3/4
Piobaireachd (Submit 1 tune from set list 2) https://theclasp.co.uk/set-tunes/#setlist2023https://theclasp.co.uk/set-tunes/#setlist2023
2/4 March (Own Choice -Min 4 parts)
Strathspey & Reel (Own Choice)
Jig (Own Choice)

British Pipe Band Championship in Forres, 2024
2024-06-08 | Forres
RSPBA Press Release, February 2024 The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association Chairman, Kevin Reilly, said: “We have worked extremely hard to return the British Championship to the calendar. We are honoured to be working with Andy MacDonald from YBD Music Limited who has made it possible to return to Forres after an absence of six years. Andy’s enthusiasm, passion and drive promises to bring something special to the local area.

The huge attendance this spectacular event attracts, and the numbers of bands competing, is testimony to how much these iconic Championships mean to the piping community and to fans of traditional Scottish music.

I’ve no doubt that this year’s British coming to Forres will be an unforgettable event. We’re expecting a tremendous turn-out, so I would urge everyone planning to attend not to delay in booking so they ensure they secure their tickets in advance.” Ticketing information will be announced soon.

YBD Music Ltd’s Andy MacDonald said: “I’m looking forward to the partnership with The RSPBA to bring the British Pipe Band Championships to Grant Park in Forres, this is huge! I’m very happy and excited with this significant win. The Championship will bring great joy to many and will be an excellent opportunity for family entertainment. I know this event will have a long-term significance, and the Championship is an opportunity to develop talent in the local area.”

Along with all participating pipe bands, we jointly affirm our commitment to promoting the rich cultural heritage and tradition of Scottish music through this event. We extend our gratitude to all competitors, judges, sponsors, and spectators for their support and dedication to preserving and celebrating this art form.

Together, we look forward to a day filled with camaraderie, musical excellence, and mutual respect.

As we join forces to present these extraordinary events, we invite you to immerse yourself in the magic of the pipes, drums, and Highland spirit. Let us come together in celebration, united by our love for music and our appreciation for the traditions that bind us.

https://rspba.org/news/

Kingsville Highland Games
2024-06-22 | Jack Miner Kingsville, 332/360 Road 3 West, Kingsville, Ontario, N9Y 2E5, Canada

East of Ireland Pipe Band Championships
2024-06-30 | Howth Promenade, Dublin, Ireland
On Sunday 30th June 2024 the East of Ireland Festival of Piping & Drumming incorporating the East of Ireland Pipe Band Championships and Drum Majors Championships, will be staged in the grounds of the Promenade, Howth, Co Dublin. The Championships are promoted by St Lawrence PB, Howth and the Leinster Branch IPBA. The contest is held under the rules of Cumann Buíon Píobaire na hÉireann, the Irish Pipe Band Association. The Promenade has been the historic venue for the event and the contest takes place the week before the All-Ireland Pipe Band Championships. We would like to welcome all our bands and in particular we are pleased to mention North Texas Caledonian Pipes & Drums who will be participating in the championships.
Rules: • Bands must register on arrival at the contest venue • All bands can play in the grade allotted by their association and one grade above • Grades 3a and 3b will be merged • To signify the end of the contest the ‘The Battle’s O’er’ will be played by all bands. • As a ‘Salute to the Chieftain’ the ‘Minstrel Boy’ will be played en-masse • For the massed band tunes a designated Drum Corps will play lead, with all other drummers joining on the Double Forte • Grades 3A and 3B will be merged • Prizes: 1st, 2nd, 3rd and Best Drum Corps, in each grade, will be awarded Trophies • All trophies are perpetual • A full Adjudication Panel will be used • Closing Date for Entry: Friday 21st June 2024 Bands holding trophies please return them the Contest Secretary before entry closing date. Any bands returning trophies on the day please ensure they are cleaned.

The National Piping Centre Junior Summer Gathering 1
2024-07-01 - 2024-07-04 | The National Piping Centre
Booking for the TWO Summer Junior Gatherings is now OPEN.
These four-day learning events have been designed specifically for young pipers, aged 17 and under, who have made the transition to pipes.
The remaining dates for 2024 are now confirmed as:
Summer Junior Gathering A: Mon 1st – Thu 4th July
Summer Junior Gathering B: Mon 8th – Thu 11th July
The programme will include:
• 1-2-1 lessons with National Piping Centre teachers
• Ear-training and focus games
• Individual practice
• Come and Try Whistle
• Q&As
• Repertoire classes
• Maintenance and technique workshops
• Demonstrations
• Composition
• Music theory skills
• Performance opportunities
These gatherings will provide exciting opportunities for young pipers to get together and have fun, as well as learn more about their instrument and the wider musical world.
If you have newly started playing a few tunes on the pipes, or have been playing all three drones for many years, we have an intensive and dynamic programme for you.
The Junior Gathering runs all day (9am-4pm) and will give you a taste of all strands of piping and access to expert teachers in each area.
Please note that our Junior Gatherings are not suitable for those on the practice chanter or goose. We recommend checking out our Weekend Piping Club and 1:1 lessons.
Cost
This gathering option costs £170 per student for the four days.
Location
The Summer Junior Gatherings will run at our City Centre venue in McPhater Street.

The National Piping Centre Junior Summer Gathering 2
2024-07-08 - 2024-07-11 | The National Piping Centre

Tomintoul Highland Games
2024-07-20 11:00 - 17:00 (Europe/London) | Public Park, Tomintoul, Moray, AB37 9EX
Visit one of Scotland’s longest running Highland Games, showcasing traditional heavy and light events, highland dancing, piping competitions and lesser known entertainments like tilt the bucket and barrel racing.

The next Games is: Saturday 20th July, 2024 from 11am – 5pm followed by a dance with K & The Pupils

Held on the 3rd Saturday in July every year, for over 175 years!
New for 2024 are Open Female Heavy and Open Junior Light competitions, both subject to RSHGA rules.

Held on the 3rd Saturday in July every year, for over 175 years!

One of the highlights of the games, and a major draw for visitors are the Pipe and Drum bands.The bands start at the bottom of the village, working their way to the square at 12pm and up to the Public Park for 1pm.

Each year, Tomintoul invites multiple bands who take turns to play throughout the afternoon in the public park. To prove their skills, the Drum Majors compete with one another to throw their maces over a banner – all in perfect time to the marching music! This is an uncommon treat to watch and cheer on.

TOMINTOUL & STRATHAVON HIGHLAND GAMES COMPETITION RESULTS 2022

EVENT

1st
2nd
3rd
4th

SENIOR PIPING

Pibroch

Jamie Elder
Auctermuchty
Callum Brown
Aberdeen
Allan Russell
Keith
Ben Duncan
Edinburgh

March

Ben Duncan
Edinburgh
Allan Russell
Keith
Callum Brown
Aberdeen
Hamish Munro
Lhanbryde

Strathspey

Callum Brown
Aberdeen
Ben Duncan
Edinburgh
Allan Russell
Keith
Josh Chandler
Melbourne

Jig & Hornpipe

Callum Brown
Aberdeen
Ben Duncan
Edinburgh
Allan Russell
Keith
Josh Chandler
Melbourne

McARTHUR PRIZE for OVERALL SENIOR PIPER
1st – Callum Brown, Aberdeen • 2nd – Ben Duncan, Edinburgh

JUNIOR PIPING

Pibroch (under 18)

Arran Green,
Stirling
Jack Johnston,
Moray
Jake Robertson, Aberdeen
Callum Ross,
Aberdeenshire

March (under 14)

Rory Menzies,
Aberdeen
Craig Mitchell,
Peterculter
Callum Ross,
Aberdeen

March (14-17)

Arran Green,
Stirling
Jake Robertson, Aberdeen
Jack Johnston,
Moray
Calum Pearson,
Aberdeenshire

Strathspey & Reel (under 14)

Craig Mitchell,
Peterculter
Callum Ross,
Aberdeenshire
Rory Menzies,
Aberdeen

Strathspey& Reel (14-17)

Arran Green,
Stirling
Jake Robertson, Aberdeen
Jack Johnston,
Moray
Calum Pearson,
Aberdeenshire

OVERALL JUNIOR PIPER
Arran Green, Stirling

DRUMMING

Drumming (13 & under)

Lennon Munro,
Lhanbryde
Callum Mitchell, Peterculter
Daniel Pearson,
Aberdeenshire

Drumming (14-17)

Hollie Chalmers, Banff
Callum Mitchell, Peterculter
Lennon Munro,
Lhanbryde
Liam McIntosh,
Huntly

Drumming

Hollie Chalmers, Banff
Liam McIntosh,
Huntly
Glen Morrison,
Huntly
Kirsten Roslton,
Huntly

Scottish Pipe Band Championship in Dumbarton, 2024
2024-07-27 | Levengrove Park, Dumbarton, West Dumbartonshire, G82 4AZ, United Kingdom

Piping Live! 2024
2024-08-12 - 2024-08-18 | The National Piping Centre
There are so many musical highlights to be found at the Piping Live! festival. It’s a wonderful week of bagpipe music, mostly showcasing Highland and Scottish bellows pipes, but the festival welcomes piping traditions from all over the world. Come to a concert, visit for a few days, or even the full week and celebrate the 20th year of the festival
Visit the Piping Live! Events page here to see what was on offer for 2024

And have a look at the Piping Live highlights from 2022 below, for a photographic flavour of the festival.
What’s on at Piping Live! Monday, August 14

What’s on at Piping Live! Tuesday, August 15

What’s on at Piping Live! Wednesday, August 16

What’s on at Piping Live! Thursday, August 17

What’s on at Piping Live! Friday, August 18

Crieff Highland Gathering
2024-08-18 | Market Park, King Street, Crieff, PH7 3EH, Market Park, Crieff, Perthshire, PH7 3EH, United Kingdom
Solo Piping – 2024 Entries now Open!
We are proud to host Solo Piping again here at Crieff Highland Gathering sponsored by Irving Geddes.
The Strathearn area has a rich history for producing extremely talented pipers.
Our event expects to attract local and international world-class competitors alike as it falls just days before the Argyllshire Gathering – the pinnacle of the piping competition year.
This year will feature four main events, Open Piobaireachd, Open MSR, Junior MSR and Junior Jig.
TUNE REQUIREMENTS
Open Piobaireachd: Submit 3 Tunes
Open MSR: Submit 3 marches, 3 strathspeys and 3 reels
Junior MSR: Submit 1
Junior Jig: Submit 1
Solo piping registrations will close on Friday, August 2nd, 2024
COMPETITORS: Please CLICK HERE to complete the online entry form.
** In the event of a large entry, numbers may be capped.**
Crieff Gathering Solo Piping Draw 2024
Under 18’s 1. Alasdair Sutherland Bullock Under Starting at 09.30 2. Harry Russell Board No.2 3. Maggie McConnachie 4. Fergus Dorrington Seniors Piobaireachd Starting 09.30 MSR Starting 10.30 Board No.1 Board No.2 1. Angus MacPhee 1. Walter Glendinning 2. Hector Munro 2. David Stulpner 3. Christopher Mcleish 3. Alastair Murray 4. Thomas Cangelosi 4. Piers Dover 5. Joshua Chandler 5. Liam Kernaghan 6. Cameron O’Neil 6. Cameron Mcleod 7. Jordane Guilloux 7. James McHattie 8. Bobby Durning 8. Kyle Cameron 9. Dan Lyden 9. Jack Watson 10. Tony Adkins 10. Angus MacPhee 11. Walter Glendinning 11. Hector Munro 12. David Stulpner 12.Christopher McLeish 13. Alastair Murray 13. Thomas Cangelosi 14. Piers Dover 14. Joshua Chandler 15. Liam Kernaghan 15. Cameron O’Neil 16. Cameron Mcleod 16. Jordane Guilloux 17. James McHattie 17. Bobby Durning 18. Kyle Cameron 18. Dan Lyden 19. Jack Watson 19. Tony Adkins

The Raasay Piping Competition
2024-09-07 10:00 - 15:30 (Europe/London) | Raasay Distillery, Borodale House, Isle of Raasay, Kyle, IV40 8PB, United Kingdom
How to get to Raasay

You’ll need to get to Skye first. From there, you can catch the ferry to Raasay from Sconser.
Sconser – Raasay is a Turn up and Go route – when you pre-purchase tickets on this route, you’ll be purchasing an ‘open’ ticket for a chosen departure date, valid for the season in which you’ve purchased it, but it won’t have a specific sailing time. Simply turn up at the port of departure and go on the next available sailing.

The competition is being sponsored by award winning Isle of Raasay Distillery, and it will be held on the island of Raasay on Saturday, September 7, 2024.
The competition format will be: a slow air seann nós style or a piobaireachd song followed by a selection of dance music (Strathspeys and Reels) to be played with a tempo and rhythm suitable to be danced to by a hard shoe percussive Scottish step dancer.
The four judges who will invigilate are: Dr. Angus MacDonald and Anna Murray for the slow air/piobaireachd song, and Angus MacKenzie and Frank McConnel for the dance music.
First Prize to be a small cask of Raasay Whisky worth £3,000. Second Prize to be a selection of bottles of Raasay Whisky.

Twelve competitors are being invited to take part.
There will neither be a performance fee nor an entry fee.
Pipes to be played are standard Highland pipes.
The competition will be set up so that the judges will not be able to see who is playing.
Tickets will be available from The Raasay Distillery – raasaydistillery.com

The competitors are: James MacKenzie, Angus Nicolson, Michael Grey, Hector Henderson, Decker Forrest, Lorne Cousin, Duncan Nicholson, Simon MacKerrell, Ben Duncan, Ailis Sutherland, Micheal Steele and Ciar Milne.
Programme for September 7 on Raasay.
10.00 am. Introduction followed by a talk given by Hugh Cheape on The MacKays of Raasay.
10.30 – 12.00 Competition first half.
12.00 – 14.00 Lunch in Raasay Distillery.
14.00 – 15.30 Competition second half.
15.30 onwards. Drinks Reception/Whisky Tasting in Raasay Distillery during which it is hoped that a session of music will break out which will, inevitably, ‘lead to dancing’.
Ferry Departures – 17.00 – 18.05 or even 20.30.

Because Hamish Moore is not on social media, he has requested that if anyone has any questions or comments about the Isle of Raasay Distillery competition on September 7, that people get in touch with him directly either by phone (07595 599 849) or by email hamishmoore@outlook.com

Peebles Highland Games
2024-09-07 10:30 - 17:00 (Europe/London) | Hay Lodge Park, Peebles, Scottish Borders
NEXT GAMES SATURDAY 7TH SEPTEMBER 2024
Chieftains Parade 10:45 – Tontine Hotel Square Highland Games 11am to 5pm – Hay Lodge Park
Entry Prices 2024 (Subject to confirmation at time)
Adults £8
Children 5-16 and Seniors £5
Children under 5 years FREE
Car Parking £5
Pipe Band Competitions:

Novice B & Grade 4B March – Pipe Band Ring 11:15

Novice A & Grade 4A MSR – Pipe Band Ring 12:50

Grade 3 & Juvenile – Pipe Band Ring 14:45

Grade 2 – Pipe Band Ring 16:00

Drum Majors Dress Pipe Band Ring 14:15

Drum Majors Discipline Marching and Flourish Main Field 15:00

Scots School Albury – Highland Games
2024-09-14 | The Scots School Albury, 393 Perry St, Albury, New South Wales, NSW 2640, Australia
Military Tattoo
Pipe Band Competition
Mass Pipes & Drums
Market & Food Stalls
Hospitality Tent
Traditional Highland games

National Piping Centre Autumn Adult Gathering
2024-10-28 09:00 - 2024-10-31 17:00 (Europe/London) | The National Piping Centre
Join the NPC Adult Gathering in 2024
The National Piping Centre is bringing you a fantastic, four-day Adult Gathering in October 2024 for pipers aged 18+ here at The National Piping Centre, Glasgow. This school has been designed to give a fantastic social learning experience.
Autumn Adult Gathering: 28th – 31st October 2024
Be part of the Adult Autumn Gathering in-person at The National Piping Centre this October. This fantastic four days of learning has been developed to make this an immersive, fun experience. Across the four days you will have teaching from our World Class instructors – Director of Piping, Finlay MacDonald, John Mulhearn, Dr Andrew Bova, Margaret Dunn and Ailis Sutherland. As well as this there will be masterclass workshops with two of this year’s Glenfiddich Piping Championship competitors with Roddy MacLeod MBE looking at Piobaireachd and Finlay Johnston discussing Light Music. There will also be hands on workshops, practice time, group teaching and more.
The timetable will also include social activities such as a piping pub quiz, whisky tasting and instructor recital. Booking and payment will open on Monday 2nd September 2024. Until then, please register your interest in the form below, and you will hear first when this school is open for booking, and be able to claim your place immediately.
It is £300 per person to attend in person.
There will be no online attendance option for this school this year.
Register your interest here

Sign up to be the first to know when the NPC Adult Autumn Gathering booking opens!

SIGN ME UP!

Where will we meet?
The in person schools will take place at one of the two National Piping Centre locations in Glasgow City Centre or West End. This will be confirmed nearer the time of your school.
What will I learn?
Over the four days there will be group lessons, Masterclass workshops and more for pipers. Each piping student will be provided with a digital music pack so everyone will have new music to learn.
What will the school cost?
It is £300 GBP to register for a place per person.
What will my timetable look like?
We are just finalising the exact timetable and will update this soon, but you can expect Masterclasses with the world’s best, practice time, masterclasses, workshops, new music, social activities and more. These will be similar for in person and online tuition.
Is It for me?
If you are still unsure about if it is right for you, we asked attendees at our recent school to tell us about their experiences and here is what they had to say:
“Thoroughly recommend attending an adult gathering at least once in your lifetime, I’ve done it twice and it resulted both times in a positive step change in my piping.
World class instructors, fantastic location, and an easy and open way of teaching” – Attended in person in Winter 2023
“I found the whole Gathering experience absolutely brilliant, being able to attend in person, the staff and guest tutors were so down to earth and approachable, all being World famous Superstar Pipers. Everyone of them brought fountains of knowledge, new techniques for us to consider for our level of piping, and all where so passionate about piping, that most lessons ran over, which is so infectious. I’ve attended one or two Gatherings before, all of which were well worth doing, but this has to be the best todate. I’ve come away with renewed enthusiasm for my piping. I’ve always said, if the NPC says this is how to do it, no one can argue with that. I’ve had an amazing time, met some old friends and made new ones, will be booking for Spring 23. ” – Attended in person in Spring 2022
Hearing Protection
The National Piping Centre requires all students to use hearing protection at all times when playing pipes. Hearing protection is available for purchase in our shop or free of charge from the earplug dispenser in both our piping school venues.
Find out more

Breton Samhain Dance and Music festival in Scotland
2024-11-01 08:00 - 2024-11-02 17:00 (Europe/London) | Garnethill Multicultural Center, Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
Brittany is coming once again to Scotland!
We, at BreizhAlba, are delighted to invite you for a fantastic weekend of Breton music and dance on the 1st and 2nd of November, 2024 across our beloved cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow!
Our friends and usual suspects from Brittany, musicians Jean-Luc Thomas (Flute) and Gabriel Faure (Fiddle), are back to our delight and will accompany us throughout the weekend! Local musicians will take to the stage too.
Programme of the weekend:
Friday, November 1st 2024 – Institut Francais d’Ecosse, Edinburgh

Dance workshop (included in the fest-noz ticket) in the afternoon – 6pm-7.30pm
Fest-noz with our Breton comperes as well as local musicians, starts at 7.30pm and finishes at 10.30pm
Galettes and crepes available from 6 to 8.30pm

Saturday, November 2nd 2024 – Garnethill Multicultural Center, Glasgow
Music workshop with Jean-Luc & Gabriel – 1pm-5pm
Jean-Luc Thomas & Gabriel Faure started playing as a duet in 2020. They together blend traditional music with the accents and rhythms gleaned along their musical voyages in Brittany, the Middle East, Europe and South America. Both seasoned Breton fest-noz musicians, there is no doubt they will delight our ears throughout the day! Expect a real treat (video link)!
About the Breton music workshop
The workshop will start with some conversation around the Breton Fest-noz, its history and characteristics. Jean-Luc & Gabriel will then introduce you to the Breton music repertoire of ‘Basse-Bretagne’, where Gavotte & Plinn are queen and king. A good part of the workshop will be about learning tunes together and how playing those tunes for Breton dancers reflect it. Participants should have a good command of their instrument, and either be able to learn tunes by ear or from a music sheet. Any instrumentalist is welcome. A keen interest in traditional music is of course appreciated.
We hope to see many of you on those 2 days!
Tickets
· Fest-Noz & Dance workshop (Edinburgh): 12£ for adults/ 10£ concessions, BreizhAlba and Institut Francais d’Ecosse members / 6£ for over 12 / free for under-12.
· Music workshop (Glasgow): 20£ non-members/16£ BreizhAlba members and concessions.

Ratae audience with 10 Shotts
2024-11-16 19:30 - 22:30 (Europe/London) | Syston Conservative Club, High Street, Syston, Leicester, LE7 1GQ, United Kingdom
Shotts and Dykehead Caledonia Pipe Band will have a mini band performing in concert on November 16th in Syston and District conservative club. The event is being run by the RATAE Pipe Band of Leicester.
The Ratae Pipe Band was formed in 2022 and are based in Leicester. They are planning a fundraising concert with members of Shotts & Dykehead Caledonia Pipe Band on Saturday, November 16, in Syston, Leicester – see flyer below for details.

The band are led by Pipe Major Bryon Brotherton MBE who is ex-Pipe Major of Royal Scots Dragoon Guards. Pipe Sergeant Syd Charles told Bagpipe.news: “Bryon originates from Leicester and when he left the army he moved back into the area and was approached to put a competing band together. Our leading drummer, Ed Latimer is also ex-army.

“The band was formed last year with the focus on competing and starting off in Grade 4B. We have different standards of players in the band, some that have never competed, some that are veterans at competing, but also with a big focus on youth. We currently have five youngsters from the age of nine to 14 years old, so we have a real good mix.

“As with any band we are always on the look out for new members of any age. Within our members there is a wealth of pipe band knowledge and musical experience that can be passed on correctly to help with the musical ability of the band.”

Stirling Piping Recital with Angus D. and Angus J. MacColl
2024-11-22 19:30 - 22:30 (Europe/London) | King Robert Hotel, Glasgow Road, Stirling, FK7 0LJ, United Kingdom
Father and son, Angus D. and Angus J. MacColl will play the next Stirling Piping recital in the King Robert Hotel, Bannockburn, Stirling. The event is on Friday, November 22, 7.30pm and tickets are £10 and available on the door.
The Stirling Piping Recitals are organised by Craig Muirhead to bring the pipers of the Stirling area together and help create a local piping scene. There were two events in 2023 featuring Roddy MacLeod and Willie McCallum in February and Fred Morrison and Chris Armstrong in October, followed by Callum Beaumont and Finlay Johnstone in March 2024.
The venue is at King Robert Hotel, Glasgow Road, Stirling, FK7 0LJ. T: 01786 811666 https://www.kingroberthotel.co.uk/

The Caritas Banner at George Watson's College
2024-11-24 | George Watson’s College, Colinton Road, Edinburgh, EH10 5EG, United Kingdom
Report and results from the 2023 Caritas Banner — https://bagpipe.news/2023/11/26/solo-piping-results-from-the-caritas-banner/

George Watson’s College in Edinburgh have announced an new piobaireachd competition divided into 18 & Under and 14 & Under sections.
The first competition will be held at George Watson’s College Music School on Sunday, November 26, 2023, and it is planned to be an annual event.
Pipe Major Ross Harvey of George Watson’s College Pipe Band said: “Our event is supported by the Piobaireachd Society and hopefully this will encourage others to start a similar competition, with the focus being to help promote ceòl mòr. There are now very few competitions in the Central Belt for young pipers to perform piobaireachd.”
The official entry form can be found here: https://www.gwc.org.uk/caritasbanner23

All competitors must register on arrival at the school and may only enter one event. Age on date of competition.
Individual schools may enter a maximum of 4 competitors per event. Events will be limited to 25
competitors.
The closing date for entries is Friday 10 November 2023. Late entries may not be
accepted.
The draw will take place at George Watson’s College. All entrants will receive notification of the draw by email.
Entry fee is £7 per competitor, entry is free for spectators.

Northcote Solo Piping Invitational
2024-12-29 14:00 - 16:30 (Pacific/Auckland) | Northcote Tavern, 37 Queen Street, Auckland 0627, Auckland, New Zealand
This invitational is organised by the Auckland and District Pipe Band and invites five of the top soloists from around New Zealand to compete. The venue is the Northcote Tavern in Auckland https://www.northcotetavern.co.nz/

Auckland & District Pipe Band are excited to announce that the Northcote Invitational Solo Piping Competition returns for another incredible year! Join them at the Northcote Tavern on Auckland’s North Shore to experience some of the best solo piping talent New Zealand has to offer.

New Date! This year, it is moved the event to Sunday, 29th December.There’s no better way to spend a Sunday afternoon than enjoying delicious food, cold beverages, great company, and world-class bagpiping.

Waipu Highland Games
2024-12-31 | Waipu Caledonian Park, 39 The Centre, Waipu 0519, New Zealand
With a new date, this is the final major solo piping competition of 2024 marks the 152th Anniversary of the Games.
The Waipu Highland Games are one of the longest-running Scottish gatherings in the Southern Hemisphere, offering fierce competition, spectacular entertainment and a full day of family-friendly fun. Run by the Waipu Caledonian Society for 152 years.
A like to the Waipu solo piping entry form and programme is here
https://www.waipuhighlandgames.co.nz/

RNZPBA Summer School 2025
2025-01-08 - 2025-01-12 | Scots College, Wellington, 1 Monorgan Road, Wellington, Wellington, 6022, New Zealand
The 2025 RNZPBA Summer School is being held at Scots College in Wellington. An easily located venue just five minutes from Wellington International Airport, and easy transfers from Auckland, Christchurch and Dunedin, Scots College and Wellington offer a fantastic venue for the Summer School.
What will I learn?
Over the Summer School there will be group lessons, Masterclass workshops and more for students. Each student will be provided with a digital music pack so everyone will have new music to learn.
What will the Summer School cost?
The cost of the Summer School will vary depending on your registration type. Click here to find out about the 2025 fees.
What will my timetable look like?
We are just finalising the exact timetable and will update this soon, but you can expect Masterclasses with the world’s best, practice time, masterclasses, workshops, new music, social activities and more.
Is it for me?
There is something for everyone at the RNZPBA Summer School. It doesn’t matter how long you have been learning, or what your ability level is, there are group sessions, individual lessons, Masterclasses and practice times for you to hone whatever skill or interest you have.

Weekend Piping Club 2025
2025-01-11 10:00 - 2025-03-15 12:00 (Europe/London) | The National Piping Centre
The Weekend Piping Club is a fantastic learning place for new players and those that already play. Aimed at young people aged 17 & under, classes are taught in small groups here at The National Piping Centre in McPhater Street. There are six levels, all of which will run with the Glasgow schools term dates.
The Weekend Piping Club will take place on Saturdays.
https://www.thepipingcentre.co.uk/learn-cat/896-npc-weekend-piping-club
We currently have six levels, tailored to a range of learning stages. Our groups, named after famous pipe makers, are listed below:
Starck Group
Time: 10am – 10.45am (45 min session)
Suitable for those who have never had a lesson before.
*Please note: practice chanters can be purchased from The Bagpipe Shop in-person and online.
Robertson Group
Time: 10am – 10.45am (45 min session)
Suitable for those who can play all the notes and one or two grace notes, including those who have completed a term in our Starck Group.
Center Group
Time: 11am – 11.45am (45 min session)
Suitable for those who can play a few simple embellishments/ornaments and some two-bar phrases.
Henderson Group
Time: 11am – 11.45am (45 min session)
Suitable for those who can play a simple tune, a few more complex embellishments/ornaments and are able to interpret written music.
Lawrie Group
Time: 12.00 noon – 1.30pm (90 min session)
Suitable for those who can play a few more complex tunes, advanced embellishments/ornaments and who can play in unison with other learners. Participants may have started the transition to pipes.
Thow Group
Time: 12 noon – 1.30pm (90 min session)
Suitable for those who are already on pipes and can play in unison with others. Participants can pick up two-bar phrases quickly by ear, or from the sheet music.
Intakes
We now have two intakes in the academic year: January and August.
The next intake will be for the beginning of the Winter Term 2025 (Jan-Mar).
The final term of the academic year (Spring Term 2025) will, again, only be open to returning participants.
For more information please contact: clubs@thepipingcentre.co.uk
https://www.thepipingcentre.co.uk/learn-cat/896-npc-weekend-piping-club

•Tutor Ailis Sutherland chatting with some of the young members of the Weekend Piping Club.
