Bill Livingstone, 1942–2025

Bill Livingstone, one of the great Canadian pipers and pipe majors, passed away yesterday afternoon. He was 83. Bill Livingstone was more than a piper—he was a singular presence in the world of Highland piping. His artistry, leadership, and unwavering dedication reshaped solo piping and pipe bands. Born on March 20, 1942, in Copper Cliff, Ontario, Canada, Bill’s journey with the pipes began at the age of four under the…

NZ Pipe Band Championships Attract Record Entry

With 57 entries, the 2025 New Zealand Pipe Band Championships in Invercargill will be the largest pipe band event outside of Europe, writes Liam Kernaghan, RNZPBA President. ‘The ‘New Zealand Nationals’ is a must-do for many pipe band aficionados and we are delighted to play host yet again to one of the biggest competitions on the planet. Bands from across New Zealand and Australia will compete over two days on Friday…

New Amateur Contests for England/ Edinburgh School Drum Tutor Wanted

My RSPBA ranch (London & South of England) has always offered solo contests alongside pipe band events, writes Jackie Allan. It is a means of bringing together the scattered piping (and drumming) community in our very large region. Last year we trialled the CLASP system for amateur solo pipers, with the intention of creating a more level playing field for the pipers, and a better pathway for personal development.  Following talks…

More on the Remarkable Vic Herman/ Cupar Pipe Band

Eighteen months ago we ran an interesting story on Victor Herman, boxer, painter, piper. Vic learned the pipes in the Jewish Lads Boys Brigade in Glasgow. When he found fame with the gloves he would pipe himself into the ring. He loved his piping and when he discovered another talent as a painter, set about creating images of our master pipers of old in oils. Reader Peter Candy takes up…

Draw for Archie Kenneth Quaich/ Police Scotland Seek Leading Drummer

The Archie Kenneth Quaich is the top prize for amateur piobaireachd players. It is run by the Music Committee of the Piobaireachd Society. The competition takes place at the rooms of the Royal Scottish Pipers’ Society in Edinburgh on February 22nd. The competition is fully subscribed. The judges are PS committee members Derek Fraser and Darach Urquhart. Here is the order of play: 1  Thomson McConnell2  Donald Morrison3  Stewart Allan4…