News
May 17, 2026

Walter J. Cowan, 1936-2026

Walter J. Cowan passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 15, 2026, in Annan, Scotland. Born in Annan on August 7, 1936, he became one of the most influential pipers, pipe-majors and senior light music judges of his generation, as well as a foundational figure in the piping traditions
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News
May 6, 2026

Piping Live! adds Drum Corps Series to 2026 lineup

The 2026 edition of Piping Live! is adding drumming to its programming with the Drum Corps Series, with one of four...
Results
May 4, 2026

Sarah Muir wins overall, Piob goes to Brodie Watson-Massey at 2026 Highlands & Islands

Sarah Muir of East Kilbride, Scotland, was the overall Premier and A-Grade winner at the annual Highlands & Islands...
Results
May 3, 2026

Hudson, WillIiamson win the 2026 Ian Swinton Open trophies

Nick Hudson of Houston was the overall winner of the 2026 Ian Swinton Open Solo Piping Competition, with a first in the...
Results
May 2, 2026

Steven Shedden: 2026 Oceania Drumming Champion

Steven Shedden of Melbourne, Australia, won the 2026 RSPBA Oceania Pipe Band Snare Drumming Championship held at St....
From the archives
Results
August 12, 2025
Steven McWhirter wins 2025 British Solo Snare Drumming Championship
Almost lost among the hubbub of Piping Live! were the British Solo Drumming Championships won by Inveraray & District's...
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May 19
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Does judging accreditation matter?

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How much does it matter to you that someone judging you or your band is accredited with an association?

  • Essential. I won't be judged by unaccredited people.
  • Important. But I'd probably still play.
  • Not too important. Accreditation doesn't mean much.
  • Unimportant. The only thing that matters is their history of competition success.
  • I don't compete, solo or band
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