Preparing for tomorrow’s ‘Worlds’ today
August 10, 2012 by Grace Franklin
Pipe Major Richard Parkes MBE (centre) personally checked each piper's sound during public rehearsals in the park.
Informally dressed they may be, but this is the world leading Field Marshal Montgomery Pipe Band in public rehearsals in Kelvingrove Park today, preparing for the World Pipe Band Championships on Glasgow Green tomorrow (Saturday 11 August 2012). Last year they came first in every major competition they entered including the ‘Worlds’.
Around 8000 pipers, drummers and performers are expected to take part in the ‘Worlds’ which have been associated with Glasgow for 70 years. They’ll bring with them an audience of at least 40,000 and will create a spectacle that is difficult to match.
From County Antrim, the Field Marshal Montgomery pipers were checked individually by Pipe Major Richard Parkes MBE (pictured centre) as part of their intense concentration on the quality of their sound. That kind of scrutiny while being watched by a crowd, is all part of the discipline of a pipe band.
Even if you’re not partial to the sound of the great Highland bagpipe, it is worth a visit to Glasgow Green tomorrow to watch the style and the dedication of skilled musicians from all parts of the world. Truly a memorable day out.
It is worthwhile going to see it. We’ll be there with friends.