Pipeband competition

Dollar promises to be packed with atmosphere this weekend with the skirl of the bagpipes in the air.

Dollar Pipe Band Competition is taking place on Saturday, May 20.

A spokesperson for Dollar Community Development Trust said: “it’s going to be a great event with 44 pipe bands from across the country, 57 performances and eight drum major displays, all in the beautiful setting of Dollar Academy grounds.

“The competition will start at 9.45am and will run through to a massed bands display to close the event at 5pm.

“There will be a seated area for older/ disabled visitors and space for wheelchairs.”

Entry is free and there will be lots of food and drink options available, including GM Whyte premium Aberdeen Angus burgers, Williams Brothers Brewery, The Pizza Aficionadoughs, Bumblebeans Coffee and Troy-ann’s Caribbean Kitchen.

“We are expecting it to be a busy day in the town,” said the spokesperson. “Parking for visitors will be on Newfield, immediately behind The Hive.

“Good luck to all those taking part.” Dollar Academy itself has a long history of success. From beginners to world champions (2022, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2015, 2014), the school boasts of being “probably the number one school in the world at which to learn piping and drumming”.

With over 160 pupils involved and the opportunity to compete at all levels, the Pipe Band is a highly popular activity. Pupils can get involved from Prep 3 onwards and continue throughout their time at the school. In addition to taking part in numerous competitions, the Pipe Band is often invited to play at prestigious events held both at home and abroad.

The academy’s pipe band can often be seen - and heard - practising on the school lawns - including every morning during the summer term.