Author: Trevor Clydesdale

History: Cowal Gathering Programme from 1947 Reflects SPBA Dispute

Posted on      by      Leave a comment

I have recently acquired a copy of the Cowal Highland Gathering programme from 1947, writes Trevor Clydesdale. The dispute between the Gathering’s organisers and the then Scottish Pipe Band Association was in full flow and it is interesting to note that no band names for the Cowal World Championship were shown in the programme. Presumably this may have been due to the uncertainty over entries with threats of bans for…

More History: Cowal Gathering Programme from 1947 Reflects SPBA Dispute

Pipe Band History: 1953 Coronation Glasgow Gathering and an Unusual Contest Format

Posted on      by      1 Comment

In 1953 it was decided that there should be a Coronation Highland Gathering to mark HM The Queen’s ascent to the throne. It was held at Ibrox Stadium on May 30th with 40 bands entering an ungraded contest. A special organising committee had been formed by the then Scottish Pipe Band Association and the competition rules they set raised more than a little debate and interest in piping circles. The…

More Pipe Band History: 1953 Coronation Glasgow Gathering and an Unusual Contest Format