Extra Curricular
piping and Drumming
The Piping and Drumming Programme at St Columba’s School is one of Scotland’s leading youth music initiatives, offering pupils an exceptional pathway into the art, discipline, and tradition of Scottish piping and drumming. Open to all pupils from Junior 3 to Senior VI, the programme welcomes complete beginners as well as experienced players, providing expert tuition in bagpipes, snare drum, tenor drum, and bass drum.
With over 100 pupils taking part each year, the programme is one of the largest and most vibrant of its kind. Our young musicians progress through a structured system of development bands, with advancement based on merit, commitment, and musical growth. Pipe Band I brings together the most experienced players and represents St Columba’s at major school events, community engagements, civic occasions, and high-profile performances.
A defining feature of the programme is its tradition of touring. The Pipe Band regularly undertakes trips that broaden pupils’ musical experience and cultural awareness, including tours to Northern Ireland and, most notably, New York. Every three years the band travels to the United States to take part in Tartan Week celebrations. In 2023, 64 pupils travelled to New York where the band was awarded Pipe Band of the Parade, a remarkable achievement that showcased their talent on an international stage. In April 2026, 61 pupils and members of staff will travel to the Big Apple.
Under the leadership of Programme Manager Gordon Bruce, pupils benefit from outstanding instruction delivered by a team of specialist tutors. The programme’s emphasis on musicianship, teamwork, discipline, and personal excellence has helped to build a strong and supportive culture where pupils thrive.
The St Columba’s School Pipe Band is recognised for its competitive success on the world stage. Recent achievements include UK and Scottish Championship titles, Champion of Champions awards, and the prestigious title of World Champions in the Novice A grade. These accolades reflect the commitment of pupils and staff and the high standards that define the programme.
From enthusiastic beginners in their first chanter lesson to accomplished senior pupils representing the school globally, the Piping and Drumming Programme remains a vibrant and distinctive part of life at St Columba’s – celebrating tradition, inspiring excellence, and fostering pride within the school and the wider community.
Our world-leading staff – Mr Bruce, Mr Ross, Mr Gray, and Miss Thomson – are all recognised leaders in their field. They provide high-quality 30-minute lessons in Bagpipes, Snare Drum, Bass Drum, and Tenor Drum, ensuring each pupil receives personalised, expert instruction. Alongside individual lessons, our team also leads the full Pipe Band programme, with after-school rehearsals on Monday and Wednesday.
If you are interested in joining the programme, please complete the form here.
