RSPBA Regradings/ Brechin Results

The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association have announced the following re-gradings which will take effect for the 2027 competition season beginning next May. Two bands have been promoted to Grade 1, Grade 2 World Champions Ulster Scottish from the US and Scotland’s own Royal Burgh of Annan, the Grade 2 Champion of Champions. These promotions are a major boost for the top grade which has been struggling under low numbers…

Tutor Book 1 Now in Hard Copy & Digital

This world-beating tutor book is now available in both hard copy and digital. Each version comes with accompanying audio or video lessons making it the ideal way to start a piping career. In 20 easily understood chapters, the learner is shown all the required technique needed to become a top piper. There are comprehensive exercises all geared towards improving dexterity and accuracy. The first tune is Amazing Grace and with…

National Mod Draws Updated/ Piping Tutor Job

The National Mod have announced the draws for their piping competition to be held in Glasgow on October 10. Senior events are in the Piping Centre, MacPhater Street, from 9am. The Competing Pipers Association, who organise the competition on behalf of the Mod, have forwarded these updated lists: P/A Piob: 1 James McPetrie 2 Angus MacPhee 3 Eireann Cameron 4 Darach Urquhart 5 Jamie Elder 6 Cameron May 7 John…

Arthur Remembered/ Springbank Results

On a beautiful autumn afternoon the people of Kilchrenan and Dalavich on Lochaweside gathered yesterday to remember Arthur Gillies, one of Argyll’s finest pipers, writes Alastair MacGregor. Locals were joined by visitors from as far away as Connecticut and Colorado. The event was organised by Stella Leitch, the daughter-in-law of Jock Leitch, another Kilchrenan piper and the man who started Arthur on the chanter. This special day comprised an exhibition…

Pitlochry/ Bowhill/ Chatsworth Results

A surprisingly dry and warm day at Pitlochry (Sept.12), writes the Editor. Early morning rain seemed to have put off a number of competitors and parking restrictions borne of the A9 roadworks may not have helped either. There were nine call-offs in the piobaireachd. The winner, Douglas Murray, gave a refined rendition of Lord Lovat’s Lament. Let us hope that this win heralds a regular return to the boards for…