A Scorching Day at the Worlds and a Scorching Performance from Field Marshal Montgomery

I sat through all of the Grade 1 band performances on the Friday at the Worlds. I sought refuge at the back of the south-facing stand where overhanging trees afforded a little shade from oppressive sunshine. It meant I was further away from the action. Bear that in mind when you read my comments. A few general points on the two days. Firstly Glasgow Life need to get a life…

Nethybridge Games Results

It was a beautiful sunny day for the games at Nethybridge at the foot of the Cairngorm Mountains and it was enjoyed by a good crowd of spectators. The slightly elevated piping platform is located outside the games area and is surrounded by seating for those interested. Fortunately the area was shaded from the heat of the day. Piobaireachd1 Adam Cameron-Taylor (pictured on the boards above), Lament for the Only Son2 Neil…

P/M Richard is World Champion for a Record Thirteenth Time

Field Marshal Montgomery Pipe Band (pictured above) under P/M Richard Parkes are the new World Pipe Band Champions. They were placed first ahead of Inveraray. SFU took the drumming title. 150+ bands took part across all grades. Conditions were warm and very hot.  The RSPBA summary sheets showed the final totals. The Grade 1 title was earned over two days of competition, each contributing to the final total. Results: Grade 11 Field…

A Historic Worlds for Everyone and in Particular Ian Embelton, Retiring RSPBA Chief Executive

Tomorrow we’ll witness the first World Pipe Band Championship for three years. It will be a pared down event with the local authority sponsors, Glasgow Life, understandably keen to save money. There will be no Highland dancing, no heavy events and no hospitality tent. Band numbers are down to around 150; usually we break the 200 mark. However this should not be seen as a lack of enthusiasm for the…

Heart of Down Contest Brings Curtain Down on the NI Branch Season

Donard Park in Newcastle, County Down, was the setting for the Heart of Down Pipe Band Championships, the final event of the RSPBANI Branch outdoor competition season and also the conclusion of the 2022 Champion of Champions league calculated on the five competitions over the summer.  The competition had the largest entry of bands and drum majors at any local contest this season and there was also a largely attended…