Glenfiddich 2015 – Full Report from Blair Castle

This was a vintage Glenfiddich, which the packed audience in the great hall of Blair Castle was privileged to hear.  To begin with, we heard ten technically faultless tunes, played by ten of the world’s leading pipers of today: a rare occurrence. But technical perfection needs another ingredient: the pipers must convey the music as well as the notes.  But there was no shortage of music, and the adjudicators must…

Some Thoughts on London 2015

I first travelled to London for the annual competition in 1976 and have always found it an enjoyable experience. I can’t quite put my finger on why this should be. A chance to meet up with piping colleagues in a far off land? A different competing environment? The beer? I don’t know. Certainly the lure of the big prizes, the Bratach Gorm and Gillies Cup and all the history attached…

PP Editor’s Blog: Pipes for Sale/ 2016 Band Tunes/ Comedy Caption

Piobaireachd authority and renowned teacher Jimmy McIntosh has a superb set of Robertson pipes for sale. Check out PP Classifieds. James Robertson was an Edinburgh based pipe maker who took over the business of John and James Center when they emigrated to Australia in 1908. His instruments are distinguished by the large, heavy projecting mounts and a deep, steady tone (see pic above). <a href=”https://ppresshop.myshopify.com/cart/7581451075:1″ target=”_blank”>Buy Highland Bagpipe Makers by…

PP Editor’s Blog: KO Contests/ Caption Contest/ Rosneath Thoughts/ World Drumming

Congratulations to Craig Muirhead on winning through to the next round of the Scots Guards KO against Brian Lamond. The first round of the SPA KO is on November 7 at the College of Piping. The jousters are Finlay Johnston and John Patrick. 7.30 start, bar and refreshments. The Northern Ireland Branch of the RSPBA have sent this: ‘Thanks to Ian Burrows, pictures from all 2015 pipe band contests (except Rostrevor)…

Rosneath Games Piping/ Ardrossan Juniors/ RG Hardie Merger

Rosneath Games Piping Competitions, 18/10/15. These piping events, cancelled last July due to inclement weather, were held at Hermitage Academy, Helensburgh, Dunbartonshire. Organiser Colina Helen Campbell said: ‘I should like to thank all the competitors, stewards and judges who supported the rescheduled Rosneath solo piping competition – it was very much appreciated.  Thanks also to the janitor at Hermitage Academy for his excellent support and assistance on the day.  Following the success…