The Association has confirmed the UK Championships in Bangor, Northern Ireland in May and the British Championships in June in Forres.
The UK Pipe Band Championship will be on the 18th May and the British in Grant Park, Forres, on June 8th. Both are significant events in the world of pipe bands. The UKs attract bands from across Northern Ireland, Ireland, Great Britain, and sometimes even further afield.
RSPBA Chairman, Kevin Reilly, said: ‘We have worked extremely hard to return the British Championships 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.
‘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.
Andy MacDonald said: ‘Bringing the British Pipe Band Championships back to Forres 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.
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‘We extend our gratitude to all competitors, judges, sponsors, and spectators for their support and dedication to preserving and celebrating this art form.’
Kevin Reilly: ‘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 UK 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.
‘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 have made it possible. Our thanks also goes to The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association Northern Ireland Branch for their tireless effort to make this a reality.’
This summer’s calendar of other of sanctioned pipe band contests is now available on the RSPBA website. It is not yet complete. Officials are reliant on contest secretaries forwarding details for inclusion.
Piping Press would urge bands to support the minor competitions if they possibly can. The following competitions have been confirmed so far:
May: Banchory – Sunday 12th; Gourock – 12th; Dunbar – Saturday 18th; UK Champs., Bangor, NI – 18th
June: Innerleithen – 1st; Markinch – 2nd; Girvan – 2nd; British Champs., Forres – 8th; Ardrossan – 9th; Ayr – 15th; Colchester – 16th; Aberdeen – 16th; Edinburgh – 16th; Lochore – 22nd
July: Annan – 6th; Corby – 14th; Renfrew – 20th; Scottish Champs., Dumbarton – 27th
August: Dundonald – 3rd; Bridge of Allan – 4th; North Berwick – 10th; European Champs., Perth – 11th; World Champs., Glasgow – 16/17th; Rothesay – 24th; Cowal – 31st
- Full details here.
8 June 2024 – British Piping Championships in FORRES,
Please let me know, where I can buy tickets for this event and the price?
Many thanks
Lorna Castle