Category: History

Northern Ireland Pipe Band & Solo Round Up

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Ballynahinch High School was the setting last Saturday (Sept.27) for the third annual Down Academy Juvenile Solos. The adjudication panel comprised Richard Parkes and David Chesney (piping), and Gordon Parkes (drumming). The Parkes brothers presented the prizes in their respective disciplines. They said a high standard of playing had been on display throughout the day and they were particularly encouraged by the quality of teaching which augured well for the…

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Northern Ireland Piper of the Year/ Caritas Entries

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The Northern Ireland Piper of the year competition took place in the Adair Arms Hotel, Ballymena, on Saturday 27th September 2025, writes Ken Stewart. Adjudicators were Logan Tannock and David Caldwell. Pictured above (l-r) with their trophies are winners James Stone, Andrew Nelson and James Frazer. Results as follows: Piobaireachd:     1 Ashley McMichael, MacFarlane’s Gathering2 Kris Coyle, Lament for the Viscount of Dundee3 Alastair Donaghy, Massacre of Glencoe MSR:…

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Peter Bain’s Bagpipe – Part 2

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I was contacted by the current owner, Peter Aumonier, and a previous student of my great-grandfather’s, Malcolm McRae, writes John Gillies. Malcolm purchased the pipes on behalf of Donald Bain who took them with him to New Zealand after my great-grandfather’s death. Peter and I were able to video call so I was able to see the pipes, a beautiful set of 1908 hallmarked silver and ivory Hendersons, with a unique…

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‘Return from the Battlefield’ Recital/ All Ireland Solos Results

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Inverness Piping Society are starting their recital programme at Inverness Golf Club on 3rd October,  with ‘Return from the Battlefield’, featuring Duncan MacGillivray and Dougie Pincock, both former members of the Battlefield Band folk group and exceptional pipers in their own right.  Duncan was the first piper with the Battlefield, joining them in 1979, and recording several albums with them whilst touring all over the world. By Les Hutt A serious…

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Florida Pipe & Drum Academy/ RSPBA Regradings/ Drumming Festival

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Director Chris McKeown has announced dates and a new venue for the annual Florida Pipe & Drum Academy. The 2026 school will be held from February 22 – 27 at the Marywood Retreat and Conference Center, St Johns, Florida. Chris writes: ‘We’re planning something you won’t want to miss, and we hope to see you there. We are at a new venue where meals and lodging are part of your…

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