Review: The Lark in The Evening, a Concert by St Laurence O’Toole Pipe Band

Many people will be surprised to know that St Laurence O’Toole Pipe Band has never played a high profile concert in their home city. Sure, there have been some low-key performances over the years, but nothing as significant as this. The announcement of ‘The Lark in The Evening’ was therefore a very welcome development and sold out quickly. The 400-seater Lark Theatre in the North County Dublin town of Balbriggan…

Record Entry at Atholl Gathering (Draws Updated)

Seventy three pipers, senior and junior, have entered for the Atholl Gathering to be held in the grounds of Blair Castle, Blair Atholl, Perthshire, this Sunday May 25. Lists are capped at 25 in the C grade piobaireachd events. The music starts at 9.30am. Judges on duty are E Anderson, L Barclay, R Barnes, B Donaldson, A Forbes, D Fraser, P Hunt, W Morrison, L Tannock, DJ MacIntyre, R MacShannon,…

Editor’s Notebook: Gourock Contest/ Kohima Tune/ Michael the Monk/ JB Robertson

No Grade 1 bands at Gourock last Sunday. Perfect weather, good transport. Where were Glasgow & the West’s Shotts, Police Federation, Scottish Power, Inveraray and Johnstone? In my day this branch was the heartbeat not only of Scotland’s pipe banding but of the world movement itself. The first contest of the year would have had the top bands clamouring for an early season run out. Was it lack of notice,…

Northern Ireland News: Trophy Return Threat/ Antrim Indoor/ Leinster Contest / New President

The RSPBANI Branch Executive Committee is threatening to suspend bands over the late return of trophies. A significant number, including some from previous years, have yet to be returned. The committee expressed particular concern over memorial trophies, which hold deep sentimental value for the families or bands who have generously donated them. These trophies are intended to be presented annually, and failure to return them undermines the respect and recognition…

Ross Watson of Broadleys Bagpipes, the New Owner of the RT Shepherd Brand

Ross Watson of Broadleys Bagpipes & Reeds is the new owner of the assets and brand of RT Shepherd & Co. In an interview with Piping Press he has spoken about his decision to make an offer for the company. Ross (47) was 28 years with Bob Shepherd, working at his premises in Cardenden, Fife. Almost three years ago he decided to branch out on his own. Broadleys Bagpipes &…