Editor’s Notebook: John Cruickshank VC/ Glasgow Skye/ Helmsdale Results/ Lorient Bagads/ Weekend Games

The death has been announced of war hero John Cruickshank VC, Aberdeen. He was 105. Readers will recall the tune competition the Royal Northern & University Club and Piping Press ran for a march to honour Mr Cruickshank’s and his remarkable bravery. The result was a fine 6/8 by South African composer and piper Dave Mason. It was presented and played to Mr Cruickshank at a dinner in Aberdeen. It…

Worlds 2025 – Review Part 3

This year the weather was fair and warm both days and the new ‘junior’ format on the Friday appeared to be well received despite criticism when it was first announced.  Unfortunately, the Novice Juvenile B Final finished rather late, so that probably needs to be addressed by the RSPBA if the format is to be continued next year.  One bonus, however, was that the Saturday was less cluttered for the…

Worlds 2025 – Review Part 2

On Friday August 15th I attended the World Pipe Championships at Glasgow Green and due to my travel arrangements I was unable to listen to any of the Grade 1 performances. The remainder of the day was not to be wasted however, as an afternoon of Juvenile competition was about to commence and for me that began at the main arena with performances from the five entrants. By Gilbert Cromie…

Worlds 2025 – Review Part 1

I heard all of the Grade 1 Medleys on the Friday and all of the MSRs on the Saturday. I also heard the first half of the Medley on the Saturday. Both days were blessed with warm sunshine. I like medleys to have a powerful start – the overture – and a strong finish – the climax. FMM gave us that with their B52 set. P/M Wilson went for it,…

Worlds 2025 Results: Inveraray Retain Title

Inveraray retained their World Pipe Band Champions title today at Glasgow Green. Runners-up were Field Marshal Montgomery 207 bands took part across all grades over two days of competition. Conditions were perfect: warm and dry. The RSPBA summary sheets showed the final totals. The Grade 1 title was earned before 16 judges. Fourteen bands competed. Grade 1 (four legs, 2 MSRs, 2 Medleys)1 Inveraray2 FMM3 Shotts4 SFU5 Fife Police6 BoghallDrumming: Inveraray; Drumming…