Editor’s Notebook: Clan MacRae PB/ Set Tunes/ Band Gradings/ Jimmy Hood/ Iain MacPherson’s Pipes

Reader Rona Launders writes: ‘There’s an image of the Clan MacRae Society Pipe Band which was taken in the 1950s on your website. My father, William Turnbull is one of the drummers in the photograph and I would very much like a copy and of course I’m more than happy to pay for the image.’ I take it that’s the picture above Rona. Please feel free to download/copy it or…

History: ‘Scotch Piper and the Dancing Girl’ – Part 3

We conclude our interview of an itinerant piper, originally from Peterhead he says, and formerly of the 93rd Regiment. Given his references to the MacGregors, it is possible that he was one of that clan. See more here. This interview is dated 1851 and is by journalist Henry Mayhew. In this concluding excerpt the piper avers that the Lowland Scot is tight with his money when compared to the Highlander….

Iain MacPherson MM, the Man and His Pipes

Several readers contacted Piping Press after our article on the pipes belonging to the late Iain MacPherson, brother of the more famous Donald, but an expert piper in his own right. Piping historian Jeannie Campbell, who knew Iain well, was the first to get in touch. In addition to her comments, we are grateful to Jeannie for supplying the pictures of Iain: ‘Iain MacPherson’s pipes were Kintail, mounted with imitation…

Skye Gathering Entry Open

Entries are now open for the 2023 Skye Gathering. Places are limited for the coveted Dunvegan Medal to be held in Portree on August and 9. Early entry advised from those intending to compete. Download the form by clicking the chevrons top right.

Piobaireachd Society Announce Recommended Set Tunes for Oban and Inverness 2024

The Music Committee of the Piobaireachd Society has recommended the following set tunes for next year’s Argyllshire Gathering and Northern Meeting: GOLD MEDAL – Six (6) tunes to be submittedBig SpreeBlack Donald’s March*Blue Ribbon*MacDougall’s GatheringNameless, hiharin odin, hiharin droGlen is Mine*Clanranald’s Salute*Farwell to the Laird of Islay*Battle of Sheriffmuir*Gunns’ Salute * Crunluath a mach variation required. SILVER MEDAL – four (4) tunes to be submittedLament for MacSwan of RoaigGathering of…