The Northern Meeting have issued the following:
‘Inverness is set to become the stage for the first of two world-class piping events in August when a prestigious solo event returns to the city.
Tickets are now on sale for The Northern Meeting Piping Competitions which will take place at Eden Court Theatre on August 30 and 31. The competition, which attracts competitors from as far afield as Canada, America, New Zealand, Australia and Europe is classed as being the finest solo piping contest in the world.
It will be the first of two competitions to take place in the Highland capital within a year after it was announced that Inverness would host the European Pipe Band Championships from June 2019 for the next three years.
Major General Seymour Monro, Chairman of the Northern Meeting Piping Trustees who organise the contest, said the event is a must see for locals and tourists alike who will experience the best of the best in Scottish piping.
He said: “Eden Court Theatre will come alive to the sound of the best pipers in the world and I would encourage people to go along and experience it. This is a two-day extravaganza of the most exceptional music the world has to offer right here in the heart of the Highland capital. These performers are musicians, they make their pipes sing.”
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He added: “Everything about the event is spectacular. The wonderful setting of Eden Court Theatre provides perfect acoustics for such a display. We are encouraging people to come along and just experience the event – even if they just pop in and out. People can come and go, grab a bite to eat in the restaurant or head into town or for a walk down the river and then return for some more superb piping. Inverness is a stunning location and with the Northern Meeting taking pace, it really can provide locals and tourists with two great days of Scottish tradition.”
Juniors also play a big role in the Northern Meeting and this year there are over 30 young players under the age of 18 taking part.
Seymour Monro (pictured) added: “Whether it be playing solo or as part of a band, it’s so important that we encourage youngsters to take up this traditional Scottish instrument particularly as Scotland celebrates the Year of Young People.
“There is a huge drive amongst the piping fraternity to encourage more young players. It seems now that it’s the cool thing to do. This year we are delighted to be welcoming young players from all over Scotland and a number are also coming from Canada and New Zealand. We are also encouraging young musicians not taking part to come along and see what the Northern Meeting is all about. Tickets are free for those under 18 and I believe that once seen and heard it will inspire youngsters and the quality is never forgotten.
Held in Inverness since 1841, the Northern Meeting is the oldest musical competition in the world. It’s dedicated to Scotland’s unique form of theme and variations played solely on the Highland Bagpipe, known as piobaireachd or pibroch.
Piping is at the heart of Scotland’s identity and the Northern Meeting plays a key part in promoting this rich musical heritage among Scots, and friends of Scotland, across the world.’
• Get your tickets for Inverness here.
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