The pipe band from Merchiston Castle School will fly to New York this week to take part in the parade on Saturday – and they already know the pilot.

When they board the plane one of their fathers will definitely be there to greet them as he will fly the plane taking the band and their accompanying teachers to the Big Apple.

Captain Simon Rankin will pilot the Virgin Atlantic jet with the pipe band on board. He said: “It’s a privilege to be flying The Merchiston Castle School Pipe Band to New York, particularly as I am a dad to one of the students. All of us at Virgin Atlantic are delighted to be part of creating such great experiences and memories for all of the boys.  Enjoy Tartan Week and the magic of NYC.” 

Kyle Warren, Director of Pipe and Drums at Merchiston, said: “It is a privilege to be attending the 26th anniversary of the NYC Tartan Day Parade with Merchiston’s Pipe Band to celebrate Scottish heritage and culture. 

“I am incredibly proud of the boys’ dedication and commitment to rehearsals and practice to ensure the band performs at its best on the international stage. 

“I’m confident this will be a trip the boys will remember forever and can look back on with incredible memories – starting with a flight expertly piloted by Simon Rankin.”

Details of Tartan Week 2024 below.

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Founding Editor of The Edinburgh Reporter.
Edinburgh-born multimedia journalist and iPhoneographer.