The Branch Executive Committee of The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association Northern Ireland Branch was deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden passing of the Association’s President, Major General David McDowall CBE, last week at the age of 70.

Mr Winston Pinkerton, Chair of the Executive’s Finance Sub-Committee and Past Branch President has shared some kind words in tribute:

“We are deeply saddened and shocked by the passing of Major General David McDowall CBE, President of The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association, who passed away last Thursday [24 April] following a short illness.

David brought with him not only a distinguished military career but also a genuine and heartfelt passion for the pipe band world. His wisdom and thoughtful guidance will be sorely missed.

As Branch President at the time, I had the honour of spending time with David at the United Kingdom Championships in Bangor last year. It was immediately clear that he carried a deep respect for tradition, a sharp intellect, and a warm, approachable nature that endeared him to bands.

I fondly remember our conversation about the pipe band championships held in Stranraer during the 1970s, in which I had competed. Back then, Northern Ireland bands travelled over by ferry and were welcomed at the terminal by the Stranraer and District Pipe Band. David was then a young piper in their ranks — just one example of his deep-rooted connection to our tradition.

On behalf of The Northern Ireland Branch, I extend our heartfelt condolences to David’s family and friends. His legacy to the RSPBA and the wider pipe band community will be remembered with great respect and admiration.”

RSPBA Adjudicator and Former Branch Chairperson, Mr Alastair Patterson said:

“I was deeply saddened to hear the passing of David; during my dealings with him as Northern Ireland Branch Chair throughout 2024, I found him to be a gentleman with a great interest and passion for the Pipe Band family. He certainly had great foresight and plans for the future but sadly this is not to be. This once again is a sad time for our Pipe Band family and I want to extend my sympathies to his family and friends.”

Branch Chairperson, Mr Andrew Graham also commented:

“Like Alastair and everyone, I was very sorry to hear of the loss of Major General McDowall last week. In his short time as President, he had shown true character, dedication and leadership to all of the membership.  Coming into a new post so recently myself, I appreciate the commitment David exhibited and offer my heartfelt condolences to all of his family, friends and colleagues across our wider pipe band community at this difficult time”

A Life Dedicated to Service and Tradition

Born in Stranraer, David began playing the pipes at the age of five and became a member of the Stranraer & District Pipe Band. His musical journey continued throughout his distinguished military career, including his time as a member of the Royal Signals Pipes and Drums.

David joined the British Army as a private in the Royal Corps of Signals at the age of 18. He was commissioned into the corps in 1981, and later commanded a squadron in operations in Northern Ireland and a regiment in operations during the Bosnian War. He became Commander, 1st Signal Brigade and then Signal Officer-in-Chief, before being appointed General Officer Commanding 2nd Division and Governor of Edinburgh Castle in 2007, retiring in 2009.

Upon retiring in 2009, he was honoured to perform as the Lone Piper at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo — a moment that symbolised his lifelong dedication to both country and tradition.

Leadership at The RSPBA

Following George Ussher’s retirement in 2023, David was appointed as The President of The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association in 2024. David embraced the role with characteristic enthusiasm and dedication. He attended all the Major Championships and participated actively in Board and Committee meetings throughout his tenure. His wise counsel and considerable experience were a tremendous support to newly elected Chairman Mr Bob Niven and the wider management team at RSPBA Headquarters. His leadership and kind hand of friendship were especially appreciated during the United Kingdom Championships in Bangor, hosted by The Northern Ireland Branch last May.

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Major General McDowall’s passing is a profound loss to the entire pipe band community, across our whole Association and further afield. His warmth, dedication, and service will long be remembered.