Nearly 1000 pipers are calling visitors to the UK Pipe Band Championships this month for what promises to be a spectacular day of piping, drumming and traditional Scottish music fun for all the family.
Taking place for the first time at the Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, on July 12, the event will showcase musical talent and celebrate cultural heritage, thrilling audiences with performances, workshops and world-class bands.
1,556 pipers and drummers of all ages will be taking part in the competition, which will be held at the Royal Highland Centre, Scotland’s largest indoor and outdoor venue. Three of the 62 competing bands are from outwith the UK, with PLC Pipe Band from Melbourne traveling 10,542 miles to take part in the competition.
The family friendly event is expected to attract 7,500 spectators with children under five able to go free. Plenty of delicious food and drink stalls will also be on offer, to make it a full day out for everyone. Car parking is available, but those travelling locally are urged to consider taking the Tram or dedicated 98 Lothian Bus service.
Five ‘did you know’ facts about the UK Pipe Band Championships include:
1. 18 kilometers of tartan will be on show at the competition – equivalent to the length of Lake Windermere, Mississippi!
2. 934 bagpipes will be played, as well as 326 snare drums, 234 tenor drums, 62 bass drums and 1,244 drumsticks!
3. The three most popular tunes played are: Lord Alexander Kennedy, Mrs John MacColl and The Argyllshire Gathering
4. Dollar Academy has won the ‘Top Juvenile Band’ for the last four years
5. St Laurence O’Toole band from Eire scooped the Winning Band accolade in 2024
Mark Currie, Director of Venue, Royal Highland Centre, said, “We are thrilled to be working in partnership with the RSPBA on this prestigious event for the first time. From the first march to the final flourish, this event brings together incredible talent, proud tradition, and an unbeatable atmosphere for audiences of all ages. Royal Highland Centre has always been dedicated to providing a platform to homegrown organisations, like The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association, for example, and so we couldn’t be prouder to be hosting their UK Championships.”
Colin Mulhern, Chief Executive of the RSPBA said, “The UK Pipe Band Championships are a true celebration of musical excellence, tradition and community spirit. Every year we are proud to welcome some of the best pipe bands from across the country and beyond, and this year we are very much looking forward to being in our new venue, the Royal Highland Centre. It’s an unforgettable day of powerful performances, vibrant culture and world-class talent. Tickets are on sale now!”
For more information and to purchase tickets please see here.
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