P/M Malcolm M Mackenzie 1936 – 2024

The death had been reported of P/M Malcolm ‘Malky’ Mackenzie, a huge figure in the pipe band movement for over 50 years. He was 85. His son Donald, also a noted piper, said: ‘It is with a heavy heart I report the passing of my dad. He passed away this morning after a short battle with mesothelioma. ‘The piping world was his life’s passion and he made many, many friends…

RSPBA’s New President: ‘I will Be More than Just a Figurehead’

Despite running a very successful World Pipe Band Championship, the RSPBA has become embroiled in yet another difficulty following the fiasco of the mis-calling of the Novice B result. It is not the first problem the Association has had to face in the past several months. Has a new President arrived just in time to steady the ship? Major General David McDowall CBE (pictured), former General Officer Commanding of the…

Review and Results: Lochaber Gathering 2024

Coming directly after the Argyllshire Gathering and before the Northern Meeting, and being indoors, guarantees that this event is always oversubscribed in the B/C division, writes the Editor. In the B/C piobaireachd, capped at 20, 18 played. Twenty-six entered the B/C light music and 23 played. The venue is the splendid Highland Cinema and its piazza right on Fort William main street. It is given courtesy its owner and founder,…

Argyllshire Gathering Day 2 Results with Pictures and Juniors Added

Ceòl beag is the focus of the second day at Oban with competitions for ‘A’ and ‘B’ grade March and Strathspey & Reel and Jig. There is also the Intermediate MSR for young pipers who played in the MacGregor Memorial the day before, and local contests. Conditions were wet and windy but canopies provided for judges and competitors offered a good degree of protection from the elements. ‘A’ March, Royal…

Focus of World Piping now on Argyllshire Gathering/ CLASP League Winners

After a huge week in the pipe band world our focus now turns to a huge week in the solo piping world, namely the Argyllshire Gathering In Oban. Piobaireachd competitions are underway for Gold Medal, Silver Medal, Senior Piobaireachd and MacGregor Memorial Piobaireachd. These exclusive events are restricted to either the top pipers in their category or those who have qualified from previous success. Any prize is a significant achievement;…