Highland Games Round-up: Ballater, Crieff, Helmsdale

Ballater Games were held last Thursday with a very low turnout – another consequence of Worlds Week. Helmsdale Games in the far north were on Saturday, August 15 and Crieff yesterday, August 16. Pictured above is Champion Piper at Helmsdale, Angus MacPhee. Thursday 13th August saw the Ballater Highland Games in upper Deeside, writes Duncan Watson. It is a popular venue for tourists and was well attended. The weather was pleasantly warm…

Glenfinnan Gathering and Nairn Games Results

Entries at both these games were severely affected by the date clash with the World Pipe Band Championships in Glasgow. Conditions were generally good with healthy attendances of tourists and locals. At Glenfinnan there was a clean sweep for Calum Craib who won all senior events. Runner-up in all categories was Archie Clark with Ruairidh MacDonald third in the Strathspey and Reel. Pictured above is Calum Craib receiving his trophy…

Worlds 2026 Results: SFU Take Title after 17 Years

Simon Fraser University won the 2026 World Pipe Band Champions title today at Glasgow Green. It was P/M Alan Bevan’s first Worlds title. Runners-up were Field Marshal. 211 bands took part across all grades over two days of competition. Conditions were perfect: cool and dry. The RSPBA summary sheets showed the final totals. The Grade 1 title was earned before 16 judges. Thirteen bands competed. Grade 1 (four legs, 2 MSRs, 2…

Piobaireachd Society Concert 2026/ CLASP Results

Our recital, ‘Classical Pipe Music – Scotland’s Hidden Treasure’, part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, was once again a resounding success. It was held in St Cecilia’s Hall last Sunday, August 9th. Ninety-five people were present buying tickets on the door or via the festival box office. The format has changed a little over the years but the basic structure has remained the same. Pipers play piobaireachd to an interested and…

New Book on the Judging of Solo Piping

A new book on the judging of solo piping has been issued by the Piobaireachd Society. It has been compiled and edited by PP Editor Robert Wallace who is also President of the Society. The book builds on an early edition entitled ‘The Judges’ Companion’ issued in 2005. The new book has contributions from some of the best writers and authorities on piping and the judging of competitions: Malcolm McRae,…