Editor’s Notebook: Skye Summer School/ Book Search/ London Notes/ SPA/ Fred Morrison

It is a pleasant thought these winter days that a few months from now we will be sharing tunes on the isle of Skye. The occasion will be the second Piobaireachd Society Summer School from June 4 to 9th. It’s on Sleat, the Garden of Skye, at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, the Gaelic College, and last year attracted a small but dedicated band of ceòl mòr enthusiasts to whom Jack Taylor…

The BBC Are Right to Change the Piping Programme Say Most Readers

BBC Radio Scotland’s pledge to continue with their piping programme and outside broadcasts such as the World Pipe Band Championships has been welcomed by Piping Press readers. However, most agreed with our correspondent Duncan Watson that the current ‘Pipeline’ show had lost its way and needed to ‘get back to basics’. James Fraser: ‘Thank you for your work in getting a resolution to this matter. I agree with all the…

BBC Radio Scotland Commits to Piping Programming After Axing of ‘Pipeline’ – Worlds Coverage to Continue

The BBC has further responded to criticism over the axing of Radio Scotland’s flagship piping programme ‘Pipeline’. A series of well-supported complaints petitions was launched, somewhat belatedly, after Piping Press revealed the story last December. The Corporation did respond to our article at the time but now BBC Scotland’s Head of Commissioning, Louise Thornton, has underlined what was said in answer to our report – and confirmed continued coverage of…

History: Rare Picture of P/M Donald MacLeod

Here is a photograph of Pipe Major Donald MacLeod which might be of interest. I think it is a photograph of a photograph. I obtained it from my brother Hugh, resident in Dingwall. He was of the opinion that it was taken at Dingwall Games.   I have my doubts about that and am more inclined to the likelihood that it was at the Strathpeffer Highland Gathering. This is because I recognise the trees…

Canada’s City of Victoria Pipe Band Celebrate 50 Years Since Their Founding

The City of Victoria Pipe Band, British Columbia, Canada, was formed in the autumn {fall) of 1972. Although the band ceased operations a number of years ago, past members met recently, celebrating the 50th anniversary of its formation. By Peter Aumonier Organised by Colin Magee and Gord Pollock, the band gathered at the Grand Pacific Hotel, Victoria, BC, for cocktails, an excellent meal, and an evening of story telling and…