Countdown to the World’s Largest Schools Pipe Band Competition

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It is exactly two weeks before the entry deadline for this year’s Scottish Schools Pipes and Drums Championships, the world’s largest celebration of school piping and drumming, writes Leslie Wilkinson. Organised by the Scottish Schools Pipes and Drums Trust (SSPDT), the annual Championships are part of a broader effort to promote piping and drumming in schools across Scotland.  The Trust has recently awarded funding to Edinburgh City Council to help…

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Canadian Gold Medallist Bill Livingstone’s New Piobaireachd Release

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Renowned Canadian piper, composer, and author William (Bill) Livingstone has released the fifth volume of his celebrated series, A Piobaireachd Diary. The album continues his dedication to exploring and interpreting the classical music of the great Highland bagpipe, a journey that has spanned decades and earned him international acclaim. By Andrew B Giles Bill, a notable figure in the world of piping, was the founding Pipe Major of the 78th…

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Oban and Inverness Entries/ Northern Ireland Band Dates/ Ross Miller New Single

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Entries for the major competitions at the 2025 Argyllshire Gathering (Aug. 27/28), and the Northern Meeting (Sept. 11/12), close on January 31, just over two weeks away. No late entries will be considered by the promoters. The entry deadline includes those playing for the Senior Piobaireachd, the Clasp and both Former Winners’ March, Strathspey and Reel competitions. A meeting to finalise those eligible for Gold and Silver Medal competitions will…

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Editor’s Notebook: Concert Formation/ Col Sutherland Award/ Scots Guards KO/ Florida Games

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Not for the first time the Eastern United States Pipe Band Association is showing the way. They have enshrined into ‘law’ that bands competing indoors must do so in concert formation. Their rules now state: ‘When approved by the Executive Committee, a band may form on a stage or field in a semi-circle formation facing the audience. ‘If at all possible, this contest will be held on a stage with…

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CLASP ‘In Person’ Results

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The first in-person Competition League for Amateur Solo Pipers (CLASP) competition of the year was held last Saturday, 11th January 2025, at the National Piping Centre, Otago Street, writes Margaret Houlihan. Overall winners are pictured above, l-r: Donald Morrison (Grade 2), Craig Turnbull (Grade 1), Anthony MacLachlan (Grade 3). G1 Piob.: 1 Donald Morrison 2 Graham Farr 3 John Nevans 4 Craig Turnbull 5 Dugald MacLeod G2 Piob: 1 Adam Aitchison…

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