Editor’s Notebook: World Solo Drumming/ Champion of Champions Medal/ Richard Parkes/ Piobaireachd by the Sea/ Oldest Piper Search/ North East Photographs

Not surprised the RSPBA have cancelled the World Solo Drumming given that there will be no fly-in competitors, but could they not have put on something for the drummers in lieu? I really cannot understand the lack of activity from this great organisation. What about a Scottish drum championship or a UK drum championship or a British Isles drum championship? They could have used Headquarters in Washington Street and if…

Richard Reflects on His Four Decades of Success with Field Marshal Montgomery – Part 2

The success of P/M Richard Parkes MBE and his Field Marshal Montgomery Pipe Band from Lisburn, Northern Ireland, is the stuff of legend. In a remarkable career beginning 40 years ago, Richard has amassed a trophy haul that is unlikely ever to be beaten. He continues his look back at that success and how he achieved it…. My brother Gordon was my first leading drummer. He had taken over from…

Richard Reflects on His Four Decades of Success with Field Marshal Montgomery

Only P/M Ian McLellan of the Strathclyde Police Pipe Band can rival the success of P/M Richard Parkes and his Field Marshal Montgomery Pipe Band from Lisburn, Northern Ireland. In a remarkable career beginning 40 years ago, Richard has amassed a trophy haul that is unlikely ever to be beaten. He is truly a living legend in the pipe band world and today on Piping Press he begins a look…

Piper Eilidh Inspires New Dance Work

A powerful and emotional musical tribute with dancers spanning the length of Britain has been unveiled in memory of Manchester Arena victim Eilidh MacLeod to support the work of the music education charity set up in her memory, writes Iagan MacNeil. Composed by musician Glenn Ross, ‘A Dance for Eilidh’ was inspired by the story of the 14-year-old from the Outer Hebrides, her creativity and love of music as well as the…

Glasgow Police No More-New Band for Scot Cops

Official Press Release: Police Scotland is piping in a new era with the formation of the new Police Scotland & Federation Pipe Band. Pipe band activity has been restricted over the last year due to COVID-19, allowing the current band, Glasgow Police Pipe Band, to consider its future and recognise an opportunity to align itself fully with Police Scotland. Police Scotland recognises the important influence and contribution pipe bands have…