Glasgow pupils urged to sign up for Scottish Pipe Band Championship

YOUNG musicians across Glasgow are being urged to sign- up for a national piping event next year.

The Scottish Schools Pipe Band Championship is set to take place on Sunday, March 12 after a two- year absence.

The competition, which was launched back in 2013, will see more than 60 pipe bands, quartets and freestyle ensembles, gather for one of the “biggest events” in the bagpiping calendar.

With more than 700 Scottish pupils already signed- up for the competition, organisers are now encouraging schools across Glasgow to “claim their place.”

Alexandra Duncan, chief executive of the Scottish Schools Pipes and Drums Trust ( SSPDT), said: “The Championships are a highlight of the year for young players who not only get a chance to perform in public but to test themselves against their peers.

“Being a part of something like a pipe band can positively influence young people in so many ways. It is a great way to make long- lasting friendships and it is proven to improve a host of life skills by building confidence, improving concentration and fostering teamwork. The pandemic weakened many of the bands because teaching had to move online and, in some places, it stopped altogether for quite a long time so we have made it even easier to take part by adjusting the rules which can be found on our website.

“Also, we recognise that the cost of travel has gone up a lot, so we gave doubled our financial grants. The Championships are free to enter for spectators as well as players and there are cash prizes to be won.”

Expert judges will be in attendance on the day to determine the worthy winners.

Judges will include the likes of Craig Munro of the Red Hot Chilli Pipers and Steven Blake of Rura.

During the event, the SSPDT will also be presenting the Eilidh MacLeod Endeavour Award to pay tribute to the young piper from Barra who died in the Manchester Arena attack in 2017.

David Johnston, convenor of the SSPDT, said: “The Championships are one of the highlights of many schools’ calendars and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back after such a long break.”