Mid Argyll Pipe Band prepares for busy competition season

With big ambitions to compete at all four major competitions this year, the corps of 17 pipers and eight drummers have already begun group practise twice a week.

Appearances are planned for the UK Championships in Edinburgh, Scottish Championships in Dumbarton, European Championships in Perth and the World Pipe Band Championships in Glasgow. 

The band will also be competing at smaller local events to give their younger members a taste of the competitive scene and prepare them for Grade 3B standard.

But the band cannot travel all over the country or purchase and maintain instruments without funding, so they have launched a campaign to help cover the costs.

A funding boost came recently in the form of substantial grant from Foundation Scotland, which will be used to provide new drumming kit and continue provision of professional tutoring. 

The band is also looking for further grants to help with the purchase of piping equipment, tutoring and new uniforms.

Band fundraising ventures include a soup and sandwich lunch on Saturday March 1 in Lochgilphead’s Parish church, with performances from the pipers outside. 

With more public practises and performances, the band hope to generate more donations and perhaps sell some merchandise.

The events do not end there, however, as a ceilidh, bingo, quiz night and multiple raffles are also in the works. 

Pipe Major Alasdair McLean said: "A letter circulated to local businesses over the festive period inviting them to contribute towards our funds provided us with some generous donations for which we are very grateful."