Two new piobaireachd recordings have been made available on the PP Audio Archive. The first is the ground and first variation of Lament for John MacDonald of Inverness by P/M Donald MacLeod. The performance is introduced by P/M MacLeod himself and he states that it was composed at Fort George so probably dates from the very early 1960s. John MacDonald, Inverness, was P/M MacLeod’s tutor for 25 years and died…
Piping Convenor at Braemar Royal Highland Gathering, Jim Wood, has sent this: ‘Some interesting pictures for you this week, which if possible we would like some help with. We think we know the years, but are struggling with the pipers, are you able to help? ‘Braemar Royal Highland Society are undertaking an archiving project of the memorabilia they have collected over the last 200 years. Should your readers have any…
Re-reading Dr J David Hester’s letter of a few weeks ago has caused me to reflect…. Judging, any sort of judging – bands, solos, cattle shows – is not easy. I remind readers once more of the late Donald MacGillivray’s immortal words at Strathpeffer Games in the 1970s, ‘I hate judging – cattle shows or piping – one is always surrounded by a sea of disappointed faces at the end….’ But, Donald…
Solo piping adjudicator Archie Maclean has sent the following: ‘Enjoyed the interesting article on P/M George Ackroyd. Please find attached, a rather creased and tattered photograph cutting from the ‘Oban Times’ (circa. 1939) under the heading ‘Pipe-Majors of the Highland Brigade’. ‘P/M Ackroyd is standing fourth from the left, the only one wearing a feather bonnet. The accompanying text has him as Pipe Major G. Ackroyd (Depot) Black Watch. You’ll make out ‘big’ Donald…
Former Scots Guards Pipe Major Sandy Davidson died at home last Thursday morning from a suspected heart attack. Sandy (74) was considered a thorough gentleman by those who knew him. He is survived by wife Margaret, son Alex, daughter Gillian, and many grandchildren. Sandy joined the 7th Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders in Stirling before transferring to the Scots Guards in the early 60s. He became Pipe Major of the 2nd Batt in January…
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