Our Solo Piping and Drumming Competition which is open to school-age musicians takes place at Lathallan School on Saturday 21st September 2024, as part of our annual Mini Highland Games. Last year saw an astounding 126 entries and judges on the day said the event presented a good standard of playing from a very young contingent of pipers and drummers. They especially liked the unique format of grading them by the level of tunes they could play rather than their age.
We are honoured to have such esteemed judges at our Solo Piping and Drumming Competition. Their expertise, passion, and commitment to the art of piping and drumming will make this event a truly memorable experience for all involved.
Anne Spalding
A true pioneer in the world of piping, Anne Spalding has broken barriers and inspired countless musicians. She began her journey under the guidance of her grandfather and later studied at RU Brown. Anne’s early successes on the solo circuit culminated in her historic achievements of being the first female to compete in the gold medal competitions at the Argyllshire Gathering and the Northern Meeting in 1976.
Beyond her own performances, Anne has been a dedicated teacher and mentor. She has taught at prestigious institutions like Morrison’s Academy, The High School of Dundee, and Ardvreck Prep School, sharing her passion and knowledge with students of all ages and abilities. In recognition of her significant contributions to piping, Anne was awarded the Balvenie Medal in 2019.
Rory Duncan
Rory’s journey in pipe bands began with Bucksburn & District, and he quickly progressed to grade 1 with the Vale of Atholl and Police Scotland Fife. His drumming talents have also led him to success with Portlethen & District, where he played a crucial role in their European and Scottish drumming championships. Currently, Rory is a member of the 2024 World champions Inveraray & District, playing under the guidance of lead drummer Steven McWhirter.
Jim Semple
With a rich history in piping, Jim’s journey began in 1976 at the Strathendrick Pipe Band Association. As a serving police officer, he was a member of the renowned Strathclyde Police Pipe Band, which won 6 World Championships in a row and achieved a Grand Slam of winning all 5 Major Championships in the same season.
Since retiring from the police, Jim has dedicated himself to teaching piping at schools like George Watson’s College, Lathallan School, and the Govan Schools Project. He has also served as Piping Instructor to the Royal Army Police and is a certified Piping Adjudicator with the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association.
Cameron Sinclair
With 10 years of competing experience as a tenor drummer Cameron progressed through the Vale of Atholl ranks before joining Fife Police where he plays currently. Fife Police are established within the top six bands at Grade 1 level, with the drum corps specifically finishing 1st at the recent British Championships. As well as competing as a band, Cameron has picked up numerous awards as a solo drummer, receiving both international and world-wide accolades in this area. In 2023 Cameron was crowned World Adult Tenor Drumming Champion. He also has experience as a performer with the National Youth Pipe Band and has travelled across the globe with his ceilidh band Fiobha.
Keen to take part?
Use this entry form – tinyurl.com/lathallansolos – entries close Wednesday 11th September.