PP Editor’s Blog: GWoS Indoor, RSPS Champion, Spring Gathering, New England camp, Rab Mathieson

Here are a couple of pictures missed from the report on Saturday’s successful Glasgow & West Indoor contest at Coatbridge. They are of Adult Section drumming champion Craig Lawrie (below) of Lomond & Clyde PB and the other trophy winners (above). Good to see one of the ‘old stagers’, Eric Ward, putting his reputation on the line against the younger generation. I am sure the promoters appreciated his support for…

RSPBA Glasgow & West Inaugural Indoor Contest

This was a very successful day with a large crowd filling the main auditorium at Coatbridge High School, Lanarkshire, for the inaugural championship. In his address Branch Chairman Gordon Hamill thanked the local authority, North Lanarkshire Council, and in particular Mr Jim Park, Head of Music, for the use of the excellent premises and Mr Brian Robinson of Robinson Jewellers for donating the trophies. Mr Hamill added: ‘If you have enjoyed…

RSPBA Glasgow & West Branch Solo Drumming 2015

The winner of the inaugural championship held today in Coatbridge High School, Lanarkshire, was Craig Lawrie of Lomond & Clyde Pipe Band.  A delighted Craig received his trophy from Branch Secretary Maureen Gilmour.  Runner up was Eric Ward of Greater Glasgow Police who won the MSR section. Results: Overall – 1 Craig Lawrie 2 Eric Ward 3 Mark Hastings, Denny & Dunipace 4 Cameron Ward, Greater Glasgow Police MSR –…

Full Band Indoor Contest and Solo Drumming To Be Held This Saturday

Saturday sees the RSPBA Glasgow & West of Scotland Branch’s first ever Solo Drumming and Pipe Band contest being held in Coatbridge High School, Lanarkshire, writes Robert Wallace. The running order is below and a quick look shows a rather disappointing entry from the bands. Only Glasgow Police (pictured) of the branch Grade 1 bands have entered. I’m not sure why the others, Shotts & Dykehead, Inveraray and Scottish Power are giving…

PP Editor’s Blog: Judging/Bellows Piping/Band Re-Grades

Mr McCombie-Smith made some interesting comments yesterday regarding manufacturers and judging in the 1890s. In more modern times this is something that has been an issue, but more so in the bands. The matter was quickly sorted a few years ago when the RSPBA introduced monitoring. Any judge giving preferential treatment to bands playing his instruments could be easily identified and the matter is no longer a concern.  Unfortunately it has, indirectly, reared…