The 14th Annual Balmoral Classic, the only junior solo competition for both bagpipers and drummers in the USA, will be held on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020, writes Elaine Lee. This will be a virtual event, with competitors submitting videos to our panel of renowned judges. Those invited to compete may sign up for any one of three Pre-recording Workshops with professional piper Sean Patrick Regan. Regan will work with competitors to…

Judge Robert Mathieson has released us from our suspense. His decision on the great Piping Press Lockdown Painting Challenge can now be revealed! Everyone will appreciate his detailed analysis, and the artists themselves will be gratified that their work was examined by an expert. Check out maestro Mathieson’s verdict now: Sincere thanks to Robert for all his time and expertise. Congratulations to the winner, John Archbold, Isle of Mull. John…

Here we go with the three paintings/drawings that have made the final of our Lockdown Challenge. We are delighted that adjudicator Robert Mathieson, a graduate of Edinburgh School of Art, has found time to do a voiceover presentation for us with suitable comment on the successful entries. Many will know Pipe Major Mathieson from the world of piping and pipe bands. Fewer will know that he is also a skilled…

Above is a detail from the last submission for the PP Lockdown Artwork Challenge. It’s from Brian McKee who writes: ‘This is a pastel portrait I drew of my uncle Dave McKee, Pipe-Major of the Stockyards Kilty Band. I don’t know if it’s too late to be a part of your event, but I thought I’d give it a go!’  View Brian’s drawing full size in the gallery below. All…