Argyllshire Gathering Day 1 Results Updated with Comment

Four of the major piobaireachd competitions in world piping, plus the Former Winners’ MSR, were held yesterday in Oban, Argyll . Only four days after lifting the World Pipe Band Championship with his Inveraray band, P/M Stuart Liddell walked off with the Champion Piper award in the senior events. Stuart placed second in MSR and third in Piobaireachd to give him the title. By Robert Wallace Another remarkable feat: Stuart’s…

Review: World Pipe Band Championships Day 1

A cool, breezy morning greeted the bands for the first two legs of the Grade 1 Worlds 2024. I listened to the complete contest from edge of the arena with extraneous noise apparent. I had Inveraray just ahead after two excellent runs. Field Marshal not far away, after, in my book, winning the MSR. Inveraray were out on their own in the Medley, really nailed it. By Robert Wallace The…

Review: Grade 2 Thoughts from the Worlds

I sat through most of Grade 2 on Day 2. Unfortunately I was called away and missed the winners, Ravara. All credit to Samual Connolly and his band. Be interesting to see if they go up to Grade 1 or not. Listening on YouTube they were clearly on form. Judge for yourself here. Of the others I was impressed by Glasgow Skye and thought they’d be placed higher. Nudging on…

Editor’s Notebook: World Championship/ Silver Chanter/ Bobby Pinkman/ Ivory Dealer Fined/ CLASP Results/ Games Round Up

To the Worlds today for the first day of Grade 1. It must be the most open championship for years – four different bands have each won one of the foregoing majors. Who’s your money on? I have my own picked out but will not be revealing it here. One thing is sure, whoever emerges on top after this two-day examination by 16 judges will have earned it. Results Saturday…

Review: The 2024 Silver Chanter

On presenting a silver chanter to young MacCrimmon, the Fairy Queen said: ‘This can give you either great skill but no fame, or great fame but no skill. Which is it to be?’ MacCrimmon chose the former. The Fairy Queen was so impressed she granted him both. This mythic promise holds true today for all winners of the coveted trophy – and there is none more skilful, nor more famed,…