Category: Tuition

Insights into Pipe Band Ensemble

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The study ‘Insights into Pipe Band Ensemble’ is dedicated to improving pipe drum ensemble outcomes in both set and medley competition. With a focus on 2/4 march, strathspey, and reel music, the study follows a basic premise that some MSR pipe tunes are so rhythmically compatible with the music of the competition side drum, that their accompanying drum scores almost write themselves, while other MSR tunes are almost impossible to integrate with…

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Northern Ireland Pipe Band & Solo Round Up

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Ballynahinch High School was the setting last Saturday (Sept.27) for the third annual Down Academy Juvenile Solos. The adjudication panel comprised Richard Parkes and David Chesney (piping), and Gordon Parkes (drumming). The Parkes brothers presented the prizes in their respective disciplines. They said a high standard of playing had been on display throughout the day and they were particularly encouraged by the quality of teaching which augured well for the…

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Peter Bain’s Bagpipe – Part 2

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I was contacted by the current owner, Peter Aumonier, and a previous student of my great-grandfather’s, Malcolm McRae, writes John Gillies. Malcolm purchased the pipes on behalf of Donald Bain who took them with him to New Zealand after my great-grandfather’s death. Peter and I were able to video call so I was able to see the pipes, a beautiful set of 1908 hallmarked silver and ivory Hendersons, with a unique…

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Florida Pipe & Drum Academy/ RSPBA Regradings/ Drumming Festival

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Director Chris McKeown has announced dates and a new venue for the annual Florida Pipe & Drum Academy. The 2026 school will be held from February 22 – 27 at the Marywood Retreat and Conference Center, St Johns, Florida. Chris writes: ‘We’re planning something you won’t want to miss, and we hope to see you there. We are at a new venue where meals and lodging are part of your…

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Review: ‘The Ivernia Collection’ by Tim Farrelly 

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Ivernia is one of the oldest recorded names for Ireland and this book contains many old melodies and contemporary pipe music from that island. The compiler, Tim Farrelly, is the current P/M of Grade 2 St Joseph’s PB, Clondalkin. His upbringing in piping has been strongly influenced by the Irish traditional music scene and in this book he pays tribute to a variety of individuals who have shaped his music,…

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