History of The Scottish Piping Society of London: The Post War Years

We continue with our detailed look at one of the world’s most important piping societies. The SPSL has been a beacon of piping excellence since the 1930s with a long history of attracting the very best pipers to perform at its recitals, competitions and meetings. This history was compiled by former President of the Society, Adam Sanderson, and we are grateful to him for making it available to readers of…

PP Ed’s Blog: Wm Grant Poll/ Duncan’s Wedding/ World Solo Drumming/ Letters/ Queensland Recital/ Brittany

Following yesterday’s piece on piping’s biggest sponsor, the William Grant Foundation, we’d like to know what readers think: [polldaddy poll=9567284] Congratulations to Glasgow Police P/Sgt and former P/M, Duncan Nicholson, on his nuptials last weekend. Duncan’s best man was his pipe major Iain MacPherson and a great time was had by all at the wedding in Glasgow. The Livestream from the World Solo Drumming is now available on YouTube with…

History of the Scottish Piping Society of London/ Letters: City of Whitehorse/ Ceol Beag Tunes

The annual competition run by the Scottish Piping Society of London takes place a week on Saturday in the Kensington Conference Centre. Since the early 1930s it has been one of the highlights of the solo calendar. Today we begin a look back at the history of this illustrious Society and its early beginnings tracing the origins of its famous competitions for the Bratach Gorm and the Gillies Cup. The…

PP Ed’s Blog: Gold Medallists of the Queen’s Own Highlanders

Yesterday’s mention of the brilliant playing of P/M Iain Morrison, Lewis, brought to mind this famous picture of all the Gold Medallists of the Queen’s Own Highlanders attending the 1970 Northern Meeting. It features Iain standing top right. I am not sure if everyone is au fait with the individuals and their tunes, and to the modern generation these gentlemen will probably seem as mysterious as the early MacCrimmons. So, history…

PP Ed’s Blog: World Drumming/ NickHudson/ Seton Gordon and Ceol Mor

We were pleased to be able to bring readers news of the livestream of the World Solo Drumming during the week. It is something that pipe band enthusiasts have been pushing for since last year. Contrary to what people might think, the RSPBA and their co-organisers Glasgow Life, actually listen to what the pipe band public wants, and, if technically and financially feasible, will act. Tomorrow’s World Drumming Adult Final…