Fife-based Douglas Murray has been appointed Pipe Major of US pipe band, LA Scots. The band issued the following statement this afternoon: ‘Pipe Major Scott MacDonald has stepped down with immediate effective from the LA Scots Pipe Band.
‘P/M MacDonald has been central to the organisation from its beginnings in 1992 having been and president, pipe major and player. Under his leadership and stewardship the band had many successful years in competition, culminating in winning the Grade 2 World Championship title in Scotland in 1997.
‘The band was subsequently elevated to Grade 1 and placed as high as 11th on three occasions. In 2018 the band requested to be
downgraded and has been competing in Grade 2 since.
‘P/M MacDonald said: ‘It has been an honour and a privilege to serve as Pipe Major of this band during two stints. I am grateful for the opportunity to have led and supported such a wonderful group of musicians.
‘I have tremendous respect for the band, its history and traditions, and the friendships we have built along the way. While I feel the time is right for me to step down as Pipe Major, I am pleased to continue serving as a player and as President of the Organisation.
‘In recent years given the elevated performance level required to achieve at the top level of pipe bands it has become necessary to recruit globally. We needed to be bold and dynamic in our approach and change things up.
‘With the Support of our Music Board, I am pleased to announce Douglas Murray will take over as the new Pipe Major of the Los Angeles Scots Pipe Band with immediate effect.’
‘Douglas brings extensive experience and a strong record of leadership in pipe bands having previously led Police Scotland Fife from 2013-2021.
‘SM quote: ‘Douglas’ piping credentials speak for themselves. His experience as a Pipe Major, together with his knowledge of band development, recruitment, performance and competition will be a valuable asset to the LA Scots and we hope his profile and influence will also help us nurture talent and broader participation back home in California.
‘P/M Murray is in a very exclusive club of solo players (12) who have won both Gold Medals (Argyllshire Gathering and the Northern Meeting) in the same year (2014).
‘Having our pipe major based in Scotland alongside our lead drummer, Scott Walsh will allow us to build a stronger foundation from which to field a competitive pipe band.’
Douglas said: ‘I am looking forward and excited to take on this new opportunity at LA Scots Pipe Band as Pipe Major and taking over from Scott MacDonald who has done a fantastic job. It is a privilege to be part of the LA band.
‘The band is planning on attending the major competitions in 2027. With the new appointment comes fresh energy and opportunities to strengthen all sections of the band. Contact us via our social media or by emailing pmmurray@lascots.org.’
Pipes & Chanters
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