New Book Available on John Macdonald, Inverness

The Piobaireachd Society and author John Shone have published a new book ‘Life, Times and Music of John Macdonald, Inverness’. It is considered an important work in that it contains previously unseen correspondence and the manuscript book of the man described by Sheriff JP Grant, Rothiemurchus thus: ‘Those who have heard him playing the ancient classical music of the Great Highland pipe will, if they have a spark of music…

Honouring Piper Daniel Laidlaw VC, WW1’s Piper of Loos

The Ancre Somme Association Scotland Charity has launched a project to have a bronze bust of Piper Daniel Laidlaw VC ‘The Piper of Loos’ unveiled in his home village of Swinton, Berwickshire, writes Kevin McLean. The planned date for the unveiling is 25th Sept this year. This marks the 110th anniversary of Daniel going over the top at the Battle of Loos in 1915.  We have gained the support of…

John McLellan Exhibition /Virginia Tattoo

From Thursday, July 31st to August 30th, the Burgh Hall in Dunoon will feature a small exhibition highlighting the life and achievements of Pipe Major John McLellan DCM in celebration of his 150th Anniversary, write the organisers. The exhibition will feature a few of Jock’s personal items from his long and distinguished military career as a piper with the Highland Light Infantry and the Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders, including a…

Piping Flourishes in North Carolina

It was a pleasure to judge the Jimmy MacIntosh Challenge competition in North Carolina last Friday evening (April 11). This continues to be organised in Jimmy’s memory by his widow Joyce, with the assistance of their son Cameron. Ben McClamrock was a new name on the piobaireachd trophy, playing Lament for Ronald MacDonald of Morar. He caught the pathos of the tune from the opening un-rushed B echo beat to…

SPA Professional Contest 2025 – Full Results

The annual professional competition run by the Scottish Pipers’ Association was held at the Piping Centre in Glasgow today, April 12. There was a good entry in all categories. The competition was sponsored by the Piobaireachd Society and the Competing Pipers’ Association. Champion Piper was Angus MacPhee. Three prizes and five places in each category. President Logan Tannock thanked the stewards who were on duty throughout the day from early morning…