The 24th Annual Piping & Drumming Solos held by Cullybackey Pipe Band took place on Saturday (2nd April 2011) at Cullybackey High School. The event saw a customary high level of entries in the youth grades – all of whom were competing for first, second and third place in their respective grades. Those who didn’t reach the prize list received a ‘Young Achiever’s Award’ – a youth-centric scheme created & pioneered by the band since the turn of the millennium, with a view of encouraging all young active participants.
It kicked off around 10am with the Practice Chanter & Juvenile Drumming grades, and continued throughout the day showcasing some of the country’s most promising young talent alongside some of the more accomplished solo players. Every grade saw a respectable audience & the support for both the band & the competitors was commendable.
A respected Scottish piper, Donald McKay of Scottish Power Pipe Band, and local adjudicator Willie Garrett judged the pipers, whilst Mark Wilson – formerly of RUC & Field Marshal Montgomery Pipe Band – was the local drumming judge. Catering was available throughout the day as provided by the band’s Ladies Committee and those present had the opportunity to enter a raffle. The band would like to extend their thanks for the continued support of the pipe band community, both for their own efforts and the efforts of all those who competed.
