Editor’s Notebook: Fifth Major/ Piper Search/ Stirling Juniors/ Ozzie Reid/ T&C Singlings

I understand the RSPBA are very close to announcing the venue and date of the elusive fifth Major Championship for 2027. Rumours abound that this Championship, the UK, is heading for either Belfast or Ayr (hot money). The date is likely to be the weekend of 26th June. Already fixed up are the British on May 29 at Ingliston, the Scottish at Dumbarton on July 27th, the Euros at Perth…

Band Fees for Next Season/ SPA Juveniles/ CLASP Practice Chanters

The RSPBA has announced its band fees for 2027. There has been no increase from this year.  Registrations are open and fees must be paid by November 30th or a 20% surcharge applies. Rates are £277 per band. This drops to £252 for juveniles. A new adult band must pay £302 to register and a new Juvenile band £277. Fees for overseas (non-UK) bands are £231 and £210 (Juv.) If an…

Editor’s Notebook: RSPBA Chief Exec/ Toronto CNE/ College Summer School/ World Solo Drumming/ Con Houlihan

All the indications are that the RSPBA has made an inspired choice in appointing Meaghan Lyons as its new Chief Executive. From what I’ve read, Meaghan has a wide business experience (especially in fund raising). We also know she is very good with people and has a thorough knowledge of the pipe band world in Canada, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Of course this last is not a pre-requisite of the…

Editor’s Notebook: World Solo Drumming/ Dress & Deportment/ PS Website/ Stuart Recital/ Magic of Skye

Good luck to all the pipers playing for drummers tomorrow at the World Solos in Glasgow (Cally University from early on). What about the drummers I hear you say. Of course good luck to them too, but where would they be without the boys on the black sticks? I hope the judges take that on board. Drummers should be judged not only on how well they play technically, but on…

Pitlochry Concert/ Nicol Brown Results

Our ‘Raasay Pitlochry Concert’ takes place in Pitlochry Town Hall the evening before the Glenfiddich, writes Angus Clarke. It’s quite different to the Raasay Competition held last month in that the emphasis is much less on playing for step-dancing, and is instead more of a concert of top class piping.   The aim is to provide a varied, interesting – and entertaining – contrast to the equally top class competition…