A new invitational solo drumming competition is to be held in Glasgow in January. The prizemoney pool is £1,700 with £200 going to the piper accompanying the winner.
The new contest represents a unique step in the development of solo pipe band drumming competition. Often there is no prize money, drummers playing for prestige and a trophy, and pipers playing to support their band colleagues.
Sponsors are all believed to be leading drum manufacturers and retailers. Eight drummers will compete across a new competition format over two legs featuring a double MSR and a Medley.
Invited drummers are believed to include William Glenholmes of Field Marshal, Andrew Lawson and Grant Cassidy formerly of Shotts & Dykehead, Stephen Creighton of St Laurence O’Toole, Steven McWhirter of Inveraray, Jake Jørgensen of Scottish Power, and Craig Lawrie of Uddingston.
The venue is the Centre for Contemporary Arts on Glasgow’s Sauchiehall Street and the date January 31.
The event is not an RSPBA sanctioned competition but several of the invited judges are understood to be on the Association’s Adjudicator Panel. Their names have yet to be announced.
Organiser Cam Lawson said: ‘The Masters Solo Drumming Championship brings together an exceptional field of leading pipe band snare drummers for a full day of top-level solo competition.
‘The event promises an elite lineup, a world-class adjudication panel, and an exciting addition to the competitive solo drumming scene.
‘This year’s invited competitors include some of our most decorated and respected players. All competitors have featured in the World Solo Drumming Final and are prominent solo competitors.
‘The 2026 Championship features a distinguished panel of respected adjudicators to be announced at a later date. Tickets will be on sale shortly.’
