The Royal Highland Centre is to play host to its first pipe band championship on Sunday 24th July.
Over 500 of Scotland’s leading pipers and drummers are expected to compete in the inaugural Edinburgh Pipe Band Championship 2011 in association with The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association Lothian & Borders Branch.
The event, which organisers hope will attract an audience of over 3500, will be held in the main ring at the Royal Highland Centre. Over 35 bands will contest seven categories to be crowned championship winners with a prize fund of over £5000. Highland dance and Drum Major competitions, heavy events including the caber toss and family entertainment will also take place.
Archie Glendinning, director at the Royal Highland Centre said:-
“This is an exciting opportunity for Edinburgh and we’re delighted to be putting piping back on the agenda, bringing the capital its first ever pipe band championship.
“The Centre is the perfect place for a piping championship. With an abundance of outdoor space and parking visitors can soak in the atmosphere, music and Scottish culture and have a fantastic family day out.”
John Hughes, Chairman of The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association Lothian & Borders Branch, said:-
“The Edinburgh Pipe Band Championship will put Edinburgh firmly on the piping calendar.
“This inaugural event offers bands the opportunity to compete in one of the most exciting competitions of the year and is an ideal platform to prepare for the European Championships the following weekend in Belfast.
“The Edinburgh Championship will provide competition for all grades of band, from Novice to Grade 1, as well as Drum Majors. With over £5000 in prize money available, we hope to attract some of the World’s most successful bands to compete.”
The family day out starts at 9am, with the grand finale taking place at 5.30pm. Tickets will be available at the gate (adults – £7, children (under 16) – free, car parking – £4).
For more information or to enter the competition, please visit the website.
