ABOUT THE PIPE BAND COMPETITIONS
Bands at the Celtic Classic enjoy a unique opportunity. At most events they play only once; at major championships they play twice. Here they get to play four separate events, allowing them to show their skills in a wide variety of formats. It's a challenge the bands relish as the culmination of the competitive season. You'll hear the classic competition set of March, Strathspey, and Reel that bands have played since the beginning of time, and you will also hear modern medleys of tunes where the content is limited only by the creativity of the band.
We have some of the very top Grade 3 pipe bands in the United States here, from as far away as Oklahoma and Minnesota, all vying for one of three trophies.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN THE PIPE BAND COMPETITIONS
Pipe bands are famous for their style; swinging kilts and all. However, that is not what the judges will be listening for. In a contest, it's all about the music. Does the band start all together with a solid wall of sound? Are they well-tuned? Are they playing musically and expressively? These are the questions the judges ask, and armed with those questions, you can do your own judging, then see how you did when the prizes are announced Sunday!
2009 Pipe Band Winners:
- Stuart Highlanders Pipe Band
- Ulster Scottish Pipe Band
- Balmoral Highlanders Pipe Band