JPB Class of 25

Congratulations to the successful candidates from the latest Johnstone Pipe Band annual PDQB/SCQF course. The course started in mid September, with exams mid December. An ideal opportunity to ensure all participants are fully engaged in their instruments, as this can be a quiet period of the calendar, and a lot of youngsters take this as a bit of a rest period. This ensures the momentum from the season is carried forward.

This year, courses and exams were covered from the following levels. Snare SCQF levels 2 and 6. Bagpipes levels 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8. Level 8 is the highest possible level of educational achievement whilst still at school, and its syllabus is such that few experienced adults could possibly achieve it. Well done to Peter MacKay on achieving this level.

Each level contains the 3 most important ingredients of our art; practical skills, theory, and maintenance. With each subsequent level requiring a higher level of skill in each department. Therefore, while it is nice to achieve and receive educational awards, the biggest factor is that every single person walks away with more knowledge and increased ability in their instrument.

Particularly rewarding this year is that 3 of our previous students have gone on to instruct on this course; Aaron Hughes, Josh Esson and Peter MacKay. Some now intend to make this their full time careers. From the ranks of these courses there are 5 ex RCS members, 4 currently at the RCS, and 1 in the next intake, all from starting their SCQF level 2. The courses fill an empty gap, improve their skill set, keeps up their interest, and prepares them for the following season. Not long until next September when all go up to the next level.

The Exam Centre is the RSPBA, so a huge thanks to the Piping and Drumming Principals Jim Campbell and Paul Brown, for vast amounts of their time in organising and ensuring smooth running on Exam days, and to Rachel Gillespie at HQ, for administering of  the necessary work between all parties, including the SQA. Also thanks is due to the assessment team on the exam days.

Missing from the photograph are 2 instructors, Cammy Lawson - Snare Drumming, and Donald MacKay - Piping.

Keith A Bowes.

Photograph: Jen McVey, JPB Snare

JPB’s Annual PDQB: Celebrating 12 Weeks of Musical Achievement

JPB is proud to celebrate the successful completion of our Annual Piping and Drumming Qualifications Board Examination programme, marking 12 weeks of dedicated learning and musical development for our young members.

Throughout the programme, participants worked towards Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) certifications in Piping and Drumming, achieving qualifications ranging from Level 2 all the way up to Level 8. This represents an outstanding level of commitment and progression and highlights the strength of our teaching and training structure.

JPB is one of the very few pipe bands to deliver this programme every year for its younger players, ensuring consistent opportunities for growth, education and formal recognition of their skills.

Congratulations to everyone who took part, you should be extremely proud of your achievements! A special thank you also goes to our instructors for their dedication, guidance and continued support in helping our youngsters succeed.

Official Statement from Johnstone Pipe Band

After much deliberation and in consultation with its members, Johnstone Pipe Band’s Grade One have taken the difficult decision to formally dissolve, effective immediately.

All current members were invited to a meeting this evening at the band’s hall in Johnstone, where I formally addressed the band to convey my appreciation for their professionalism and contributions over the years. It was an opportunity to reflect on our shared achievements and to also acknowledge the challenges we have encountered. This decision to formally dissolve the Grade One band was the result of a combination of challenges, most notably the inability to appoint a suitable individual to the position of Leading Drummer.

From its establishment in 1943 by the former Provost of Johnstone, James Mackay, the band has proudly represented the town for over 80 years, from supporting local parades in its early years to competing on the world stage at the World Pipe Band Championships since 1948. Over the years, Johnstone Pipe Band has celebrated championship victories, earned promotions across the competitive grades and fostered the next generation of pipers and drummers through its dedicated youth programme.

Although this marks the conclusion of the Grade One band’s activities, the Johnstone name will remain active through the current Grade 3A band.

On behalf of the organisation, I extend my thanks to all past and present members, supporters and sponsors and we wish everyone all the very best in their future endeavours.

Pipe Major Donald Mackay

Worlds 2025 – Contest Roundup

Worlds 2025 has drawn to a close, the pipes are back under the bed, the drums on the top shelf and we’re all catching our breath after two days of glorious sunshine at Glasgow Green. Over 300 performances took place in front of the adjudicators across the weekend – a true celebration of piping and drumming.

Grade 1 Band

The Grade 1 contest remains split across Friday and Saturday, with each band required to perform both an MSR and a Medley each day. Scores are then combined to determine the overall winners.

Our best result came on Saturday in the MSR contest, where the band finished in 9th place overall – a fantastic achievement that reflects the quality of playing and projection of sound, despite the slightly smaller number on the field. Adjudicators and fellow competitors alike praised the performance, and the positive feedback has been hugely encouraging. (Click here to hear it again!) The Grade 1 band finished in 13th place overall.

Grade 3 Band

The Grade 3 band also delivered a strong showing, qualifying from their heat with an MSR set of Donald MacLellan of Rothesay, Susan MacLeod, and Alick C. MacGregor. Reaching the final was their main target, and they capped it off with an excellent Medley performance.

Farewell and Thanks

The weekend was tinged with some sadness as we said farewell to Gavin Orr, our Grade 1 Leading Drummer, who has decided to step down. Gavin’s contribution to the band has been immense, and we wish him all the very best in his future endeavours.

Looking Ahead

The band remains hugely positive and is already started the recruitment process for a new Leading Drummer. On the piping side, we’re thrilled to welcome an influx of young talent from our affiliated Renfrewshire Schools Juvenile band, alongside several new members keen to join we are already nearly double this year’s squad, the future looks very bright indeed!

If you’re interested in coming aboard, please reach out to Pipe Major Donald Mackay via our social media channels, or directly through this site.

Congratulations to Inveraray & District

A special congratulations goes to Inveraray & District for securing the overall trophy. With a rare clean sweep – winning all four events across the two days – and taking the drumming prize as well, they have firmly underlined their champion status.

A full breakdown of all the results at this years World Pipe Band Championships can be viewed here.

European Championships 2025 - Competition Update

On Saturday 9th August 2025, both our Grade 1 and Grade 3 bands travelled north to the Fair City of Perth to compete at the RSPBA European Pipe Band Championships. With 135 performances across all grades, the adjudicators had a busy and highly competitive day ahead of them.

The day began with sunshine, the threat of a shower of rain and a blustery wind that nearly knocked us off our feet!

This competition had Grade 1 bands play both disciplines and the band were drawn first on for the MSR and Medley contests. The MSR competition required us to air our set which had to be no more than four parts each. The tunes were: Mrs John MacColl, Duncan Lamont and Cecily Ross.

The medley competition saw the first appearance of our new Cameron Sheddon medley in the lineup, which brought an extra spark to the performance as we were the only band on the day to break from tradition, delaying stepping off, no customary two three-pace rolls and introductory ‘E’ following the words of command. You can watch our Medley here!

We are also delighted to see Piper Keiran Walker making his first major championship performance in Grade 1! While the final standings placed us at 10th overall, the performance demonstrated clear progress and strengthened our resolve for the World Championships next weekend. The band is looking forward to competing next weekend and work is already underway for our four performances over the two days.

Congratulations of course to Inveraray & District for winning both the Grade 1 overall and drumming title. Well done to all our fellow competitors in the challenging conditions. 

Our Grade 3 band also competed with their MSR set, opening with Donald MacLellan of Rothesay followed by Susan MacLeod and Alick C MacGregor. They placed 12th overall and are gearing up for this coming Saturday!

JPB Solo Piping mid-season Round Up! 

The summer solo season has been in full swing and several of our band members have been delivering excellent results across the solo piping circuit. Here is a full recap of their recent achievements:

Gordon McCready

Helensburgh Highland Games:

    • Overall Senior Winner

 • 4th Piobaireachd

 • 1st March

 • 2nd Strathspey and Reel

Dundonald Games:

    • Overall Senior Winner

 • 3rd Piobaireachd

 • 2nd MSR

 • 1st Hornpipe and Jig

Hector Munro

Dornoch Games:

 • 1st March

 • 4th Strathspey and Reel

St Andrews:

 • 4th Open Jig

Tomintoul Games:

 • 4th Piobaireachd

 • 1st March

 • 4th Strathspey and Reel

Kevin Beaton

North Uist Games:

 • Overall Senior Winner

    • 1st Piobaireachd

 • 2nd March

 • 2nd Strathspey and Reel

 • 3rd Jig

 South Uist Games:

 • 4th Piobaireachd

 • 4th March

 • 5th Strathspey and Reel

 • 2nd Hornpipe and Jig

Highlands and Islands Young Piper of the Year:

 • 1st Piobaireachd

 • 3rd March

 • 3rd Strathspey and Reel

 • 3rd Hornpipe and Jig

Congratulations to Gordon, Hector, Kevin on their consistent performances and continued success. The band is proud to be represented so strongly on the solo circuit. We wish them the very best of luck for the remainder of the solo piping season!

#JohnstonePipeBand #SoloPiping #HighlandGames2025

#morethanjustapipeband #PipingResults #ScottishMusicTradition

Scottish Championships 2025 – Competition Update 

On Saturday, 26th July 2025, both our Grade 1 and Grade 3 bands made the journey across the Erskine Bridge to Levengrove Park, Dumbarton, to compete in the RSPBA Scottish Championships. With 123 performances across all grades, the judges had a full day of competition to assess.

The weather remained cool and overcast, with rain threatening throughout—but spirits stayed high.

Despite not being at full strength due to unavoidable work and personal commitments, the Grade 1 band proudly took to the field to deliver their Medley performance. This outing marked the debut of our new opener, ‘Afternoon at The Green Monster’, which was met with enthusiasm and energy from the band. Click here to hear it again.

While the final result didn’t reflect the standard we’re capable of achieving — finishing at the lower end of the table — the energy and determination from every player set a positive tone for what's ahead. This experience will serve as a valuable stepping stone as we regroup with everybody finally back to refine and prepare for a stronger showing at the upcoming European Championships in just two weeks time.

Congratulations must go to Field Marshal Montgomery on their well-deserved win, and to St Laurence O’Toole for securing the overall drumming title. Well done to all the bands in this very tightly contested grade!

The Grade 3 band also competed in the Medley discipline, opening with the hornpipe ‘The Big Oz’—their first major competitive performance with this set. After a three-year hiatus and promotion to this new grade, they showed great courage and potential, finishing 19th out of 22. A commendable start to the season and a strong foundation to build on.

Marching On: Band Shows Grit and Grace at UK Championships with 3rd place

On Saturday, 12th July 2025, the band proudly took to the field at the UK Pipe Band Championships, held for the first time at the Royal Highland Centre in Ingliston, near Edinburgh Airport.

Despite being affected by holiday-season absences, the band remained firmly committed to attending the first major championship of the year. That determination saw us step onto the Grade 1 arena slightly under strength, but with full focus and professionalism.

The band delivered a confident performance in the March, Strathspey & Reel discipline, playing The Links of Forth, Inveraray Castle, and Loch Carron. We were encouraged by how we performed and our sound and ensemble cohesion held strong. Click here to enjoy the performance again.

Pipe Major Donald Mackay commented:
“Although we were slightly down on piping numbers for this event, we were quite happy overall with the performance.  It’s just a pity there weren’t more bands competing, as it would have given a clearer picture of where our performance truly stood in the field.  That said, I’m pleased we took part and delivered a steady, well-controlled performance — it was a strong showing given the circumstances, and that’s encouraging.  However, it can be frustrating when performances seem to be assessed more on numbers than on musical content, particularly by sections of the piping media. We’re now looking ahead with focus and confidence as we prepare for the Scottish Championships in Dumbarton in two weeks’ time.”                                                      

Congratulations of course to St. Laurence O’Toole Pipe Band from Ireland, who took the overall title on ensemble preference.

Grade 1 Leading Drummer Applications Open!

Johnstone Pipe Band is actively seeking a new Leading Drummer to join our team at the conclusion of the 2025 season. We are looking for a skilled and experienced individual with the drive and vision to lead our drum corps to the highest level in Grade One.

This is a key leadership role within a progressive and ambitious band, offering the opportunity to shape the future of our drum corps and contribute to continued success of the Johnstone Pipe Band organisation.

All enquiries and applications will be treated with the utmost confidentiality and discretion. Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their CV to Pipe Major Donald Mackay at pipemajor.jpb@outlook.com and can receive further information about the role, the band’s vision and the next steps in the selection process. 

Gavin Orr to Step Down as Leading Drummer at End of 2025 Season – Opportunity Opens for New Leadership

It is with regret that Johnstone Pipe Band announces that Gavin Orr will resign from his position as Leading Drummer at the conclusion of the 2025 competitive season. Gavin joined the band in November 2022 and immediately brought a significant change to the band’s musical direction. Under his leadership, the band’s performances have steadily improved – strengthening our standing within the top grade.

Gavin remains fully committed and focused through the end of the season and we are aiming for a smooth and professional transition.

Gavin Orr said:

"I am extremely proud of what the band and drum corps have accomplished during my time here. This was a difficult decision, but one I felt was necessary. It has been a privilege to lead and develop our drum corps and I am deeply grateful to every player for their commitment and dedication they have shown me. I want to especially thank Pipe Major Donald Mackay for his support and guidance throughout my tenure. It has been an honour to work alongside such a respected and accomplished leader. I remain fully committed to delivering our best performances this season and look forward to making great music together. I wish the band continued success in the future.”

Pipe Major Donald Mackay said:

"All of us here at the Johnstone Pipe Band organisation would like to sincerely thank Gavin for everything he’s brought to the band. His leadership, dedication and musicality have played a major role in our development and it has been a pleasure working alongside him. We fully respect his decision and are grateful he remains focused and committed to finishing the season strong. As we look ahead, this opens an exciting opportunity for a new Leading Drummer to join a focused and ambitious team. We are aiming for a smooth and professional transition and look forward to building on the foundations Gavin has helped create.”

The band is now inviting applications from experienced and motivated drummers who are ready to take on a pivotal leadership role within a highly competitive and forward-thinking pipe band. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future direction of the drum corps and work alongside a dedicated team committed to excellence and growth.

All enquiries and applications will be treated with the utmost confidentiality and discretion. Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their CV to Pipe Major Donald Mackay at pipemajor.jpb@outlook.com and can receive further information about the role, the band’s vision and the next steps in the selection process.

From Jigs and Reels to Refreshments in Pails: A Night at the Eagle Pipers'

A great evening last night in the capital city giving a few tunes to the Eagle Pipers Society. 

6 pipers from the Grade 1 started the evening playing a variety of sets from the bands repertoire. Gordon McCready then played a few solo sets to bring the first half to a close. 

One of our up and coming pipers from the Renfrewshire Schools Pipe Band, Aaron Hughes, started the second half with a few more solo sets before the band took over for their second stint on the floor.

The evening was brought to a close in the traditional society manner with a Piobaireachd, played by young Peter Mackay, who played the Marquis of Argyll's Salute.

Please click on the link here for the full report written up by the society's Honorary Pipe Major Euan Anderson.

The band would like to thank Douglas Gardiner, the Society's President, for inviting us through and for all the members for their warm welcome and hospitality.

Oh... and apologies to the society for beating the record of any attending guests in smashing the bar bill! Haha!

Ceres Games Results for Solo Pipers

Johnstone Pipers fared very well in the solo piping events at the recent Ceres Highland Games held in Fife on Saturday 28th June.

Open Piobaireachd: 3rd Keith Bowes - The Desperate Battle, 4th Hector Munro - The Kings Taxes

Open March: 1st Thomas Turner

Open Strathspey & Reel: 2nd Thomas Turner 

Very well done to all those that entered and competed on the day.

Band Launches Summer Sizzler Prize Raffle with £1,000 Grand Prize!

We are excited to announce the launch of our Summer Sizzler Prize Raffle, offering supporters a chance to win a grand prize of £1,000. 

1st Price - £1000 - 2nd Prize - £100 - 3rd Prize - Will be 4 individual prizes of £25 each!

Tickets are priced at just £5 each and can be purchased from any band member.

This fundraising initiative aims to support the band’s ongoing activities and community projects, while giving back to the loyal fans and local supporters.

Don’t miss your chance to help keep the music alive and win big this summer!

For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact any Johnstone Pipe Band member. 

Winning ticket to be drawn on Wed 18th August 2025.  

Good Luck!!

Band on the Run - to the East!

The Grade 1 band headed east to Edinburgh on Sunday 15th June for their first competition appearance of 2025. George Watson's College were the hosts for the Edinburgh Pipes and Drums Contest which attracted five bands for the Grade 1 event.

It was a cold day with a blustery wind and although the band was not to full numbers it was a good contest to get the year started.

March, Strathspey & Reel was the discipline for Grade 1 and the band played their The Links of Forth, Inveraray Castle and Loch Carron set.

Congratulations to the overall winners, Boghall & Bathgate Caledonia, taking the contest on ensemble preference. The full results were as follows:

1st Boghall & Bathgate Caledonia, 2nd Inveraray & District, 3rd Police Scotland Fife, 4th Johnstone, 5th Vale of Atholl

The band now look forward to preparing for their first major championship which will again be held in Edinburgh on 12th July at the Royal Highland Centre, Ingilston. We look forward to seeing you all there!

Pipe Major’s Interview

We’re honoured to share a brilliant interview with our Pipe Major, Donald Mackay, as part of the final releases in the Pipers’ Persuasion series.

In this episode, Donald reflects on his journey through piping from his roots in the Highlands, his time in the Army, to taking on high profile roles such as Pipe Major of Strathclyde Police and Pipe Sergeant of ScottishPower and now leading the charge here at Johnstone.

The final episodes mark the conclusion of the Pipers’ Persuasion project, an incredible archive of conversations with many of the piping and pipe band world’s most influential figures. We’re delighted to see the full collection being preserved for future generations at the National Library of Scotland, the National Piping Centre, and Sabhal Mòr Ostaig in Skye.

You can watch the interview here.

Massive thanks and commendations go to Allan Hamilton, the man behind the project for his huge contribution to the history and tradition of our art form.

Grade 3 - Up and Running!

After a few years hiatus, it was fantastic to see our Grade 3 band stepping back out into the circle once again. Under the Leadership of Pipe Major Keith Bowes Snr and Leading Drummer Jennifer McVey, the band attended their first competition of the 2025 season at Dollar on Saturday 24th May where they were placed 3rd overall. A great start to the season securing two 1st placings in Piping. This is now great momentum to push forward into the rest of the competition season.

Kevin Beaton Completes Third Year at RCS with First Class Recital

Congratulations to Piper Kevin Beaton on completing his Royal Conservatoire of Scotland end of year recital which was held this afternoon at the National Piping Centre. This signals the end of his 3rd year studying the Traditional Music course.

The focus of his recital was close to his roots of South Uist where he researched and showcased some of the life and work of the famous Roidein brothers, Seonaidh and Ruairidh. 

Well done Kevin on an outstanding presentation.

Gordon McCready Returns to Solo Scene with Strong Performances and Podcast Feature

Gordon McCready has been enjoying getting back out playing and competing on the solo circuit this year and was recently invited to the Wheel of Fortune Competition organised by the City of Edinburgh Pipe Band. 

This was recorded by Gary West for his excellent weekly Piping Podcast show - Enjoy Your Piping. Click the link here to hear part of Gordon's set on the day and browse through the rest of Gary's episodes which are also a great listen. 

Gordon has already won the Former Winners March, Strathspey & Reel event at the Scottish Pipers Association annual contest last month and recently at Blair Atholl Games came 2nd in the P/A Grade Piobaireachd playing The Earl of Ross' March. 

Well done Gordon!

Welcome to the Johnstone Pipe Band News Site!

We’re thrilled to welcome you to the official news site of the Johnstone Pipe Band — your new go-to source for all things piping and drumming from our band family.

Here, you'll find the latest updates on competitions, performances, band achievements, and behind-the-scenes stories from both our Grade 1 and Grade 3A bands. Whether you're a long-time supporter or a new fan, this space is for you.

Stay tuned as we celebrate our passion for music, community, and tradition — one note at a time.

Welcome aboard, and let the journey begin!