Dollar Academy Job Reminder/ Stirling Recital/ Merchison Scholarships

Callum Beaumont writes: ‘I just wanted to share with you that there is an exciting opportunity for someone to join the team at Dollar Academy as a self-employed piping instructor. Perhaps there may be a Piping Press reader interested.’ The blurb says the job is two days a week, though this may rise, and will be paid by invoice. The school is looking for someone who has Grade 1 experience ‘at…

History: Pipe Bands in the East of Scotland Over the Years

Having been a member of three East of Scotland pipe bands and involved with various others over more than 50 years I have built up some knowledge of many of them.  It would take a great deal of research to compile a detailed history, much of which might be difficult to find, so this article is more general. I apologise from the outset for anything, or any band or any…

Northern Ireland Piper of the Year Results

Northern Ireland Piping Society’s ‘Piper of the Year’ competition took place in the Adair Arms Hotel, Ballymena, County Antrim, on Saturday 7th October 2023, writes Ken Stewart. Champion Piper was James Fraser of Field Marshal Montgomery Pipe Band. James was fresh from his victory at the All Ireland Solo Piping last month. He is pictured left with his trophies. This was the first PotY event since covid. The Piobaireachd, MSR…

Boost for Highland Junior Pipers/ Australian Juvenile Piping/ Schools Teaching Jobs

After a few years’ absence, we are delighted to confirm that Inverness Piping Society will once again be running our junior solo piping competitions this year, writes Alastair Campbell, Secretary. This event has a long history, and is a key element of the Society’s remit to promote solo piping in the Highlands.  Many past winners have gone on to enjoy successful piping careers. We would be grateful if tutors, parents…

Clan MacRae and P/M Andy Bell: Memories from Down Under and Willie Fergusson’s March

I did enjoy Iain Duncan’s articles on the old Clan MacRae band. Congratulations to him; they were very informative and well written and certainly did bring back some memories. Iain mentioned my old pal Andy Bell who was one of the nicest blokes I have ever met in pipe band circles. I lost touch with Andy after I joined Muirheads and subsequently emigrated to Australia. By Gordon  Ferguson In 1985,…