Major Winner P/M Emmet Conway, Shotts & Dykehead Caledonia, Talks to Piping Press

Two weeks ago P/M Emmet Conway and his Shotts & Dykehead band were proclaimed British Champions at Ingliston Showgrounds near Edinburgh. It was Emmet’s first ‘major’ success since he took over the band in 2018. Afterwards he gave this interview to Piping Press….. How does it feel to lift your first major? It feels absolutely incredible.  There’s also a real sense of relief in getting that first major title under…

Pipe Band College Review: Further Response to Criticism

The following statement is from the Review Group set up to examine the RSPBA’s Pipe Band College, myself, John MacInnes and Robert Wallace. We felt clarification was needed regarding claims made publicly by former Pipe Band College Piping Principal Jim Campbell. We were particularly concerned about the suggestion that the review lacked credibility and integrity, and failed to communicate with any Pipe Band College member. [Read Mr Campbell’s comments here.] By…

Northern Ireland: Fermanagh Champs./ Leinster Contest/ Calendar/ Quartets/ Drum Majors

The good weather couldn’t have come at a better time when the County Fermanagh Championships took place on Saturday 23rd May 2026. Many congratulations to the County Fermanagh Section for finding an excellent venue for this first outdoor competition of the season.  The Castle Irvine Necarne Estate in Irvinestown is a real gem with plentiful car parking facilities as well as the dining / bar area of the indoor equine…

MacDougall Pipes For Sale/ CLASP Results

Well-known pipe maker Brian Mulhearn is selling a set of MacDougall Aberfeldy pipes. Brian says, ‘The pipes are circa. 1900 and have had some repairs but are a real connoisseur’s instrument with a lovely, mellow tone. The price is £2,500 and all inquiries to 01292 314300. CLASP, Piping Centre, in-person competition, 6th June 2026. All light music judged by Wilson Brown and piobaireachd Finlay Johnston. Overall (pictured l-r): Grade 3 Robin…

Markinch Games Results – Jnrs. Added

It was blustery, rainy, sunny and everything else in between, in the piping corner at Markinch, Fife. Champion Piper Ben Duncan is pictured above with his trophies. The results were as follows: Piobaireachd (28 entered), three tunes:1 Jonathon Simpson2 Craig Muirhead3 Callum Carn4 Ben Duncan Judges: A Forbes, D Fraser MSR (33 entered), three tunes of each:1 Ben Duncan2 David Bruce3 Cameron May4 Liam Nicolson Judges: J Banks, B Donaldson…