Cyril Hall, Zimbabwe

I rose this morning to learn of the passing of Cyril Hall, Zimbabwe. His friend Aiton Shepherd wrote from Western Australia: ‘Cyril died last night in Mutare.  ‘His eldest son, Bobby, who lives here in Perth, phoned with the sad news. I admit to a few tears. The attached photo [above] was taken by Craig Sked a few years ago at the 100 Guineas solo piping competition in Johannesburg.  By the…

Kenmore Games/ Johnstone Pipe Band/ Euro Draw

Despite fluctuating weather forecast predictions, it turned out to be a warm, dry night at this week’s Kenmore Games, writes Jen Mackintosh.  Even the midgies were kind enough to hold off until nearly the end!  Although a small number of entries, it was a good competition with some fine playing, and judge Ronnie Clark was encouraging in his praise when speaking at the prize giving. Above are the winners pictured…

Rare Book Quest/ Lochaber Gathering Entries/ John’s New Recording

Avid pipe music collector Marco Borzacca is looking to add the above book, the ‘Dunoon Highland Gathering Collection’, to his growing library. Marco lives in Genoa, Italy. He writes: ‘I’m looking for a vintage bagpipe music book but, despite all my adverts on various facebook’s pages, I have not found it yet, since I realise it is extremely rare and hard to find. ‘So, I was wondering if your magazine can…

Worlds Ticket Price Increases Spark Reaction

Readers have responded with considerable anger to yesterday’s story of ticket price hikes at the Worlds. Here is a selection: Mark J: ‘Ticket prices are terribly high. Add on to that not being allowed to take any liquids at all into the park. Last year even sealed bottles and cans of soft drinks were prohibited. Water bottles had to be emptied and filled from the ‘water points’ inside the park…

Concern Over Hike in Worlds Ticket Prices

Readers will probably be aware that tickets for the Worlds are now available to purchase on-line from Glasgow Life, the promoters. I am shocked by the level of increase in the ticket prices. As in previous years, there are a variety of ticket categories e.g. Friday only, Saturday only, Weekend tickets, all with the option of advance purchase or buy on the day. By Ian Forbes Price increases compared to…