Tag: pipes and drums

The Worlds 2026: Views of a Retired Adjudicator

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Unfortunately, I was able to attend only the Saturday of the World Pipe Band Championships this year.  Unlike some of the previous years the weather was pleasantly warm, free from rain and with only a mild wind, so the atmosphere was ideal for tuning and for the band performances.  Both days were well attended by spectators (estimated at around 35,000 over the two days).  The official programme showed a total…

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The Worlds 2026: Readers Have Their Say

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The comments on the 2026 Worlds continue to reverberate. There can be no question that this year’s championship was an outstanding success for which the RSPBA and the promoters, Glasgow Life, deserve considerable credit. But things could be better say our readers. The treatment of the Juvenile grade and the lack of concern for spectators can be added to the row over Friday heats in Grade 2. We start with…

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Review: 2026 Worlds Grade 1

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On Friday I wrote that after hearing all of the Grade 1 Medley I had three bands out on their own and one I would back to take the title. The three were St Laurence O’Toole, Fife Police and Simon Fraser University – and my cash was on SFU. Not only did P/M Bevan’s boys (and girls) take the Friday Medley, but they also won the Saturday one too and…

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Highland Games Round-up: Ballater, Crieff, Helmsdale

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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…

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Worlds 2026 Results: SFU Take Title after 17 Years

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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…

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