Gibson packs in Grampian Police as band searches for L-D

The Grampian Police Pipe Band, 2010 RSPBA Grade 2 Champion of Champions, have started a search for a new Leading-Drummer after Nicky Gibson tendered his resignation “with immediate effect.” Gibson had held the role for the last four seasons.

The band cited “personal reasons” for Gibson’s decision to depart, and Gibson himself said, “It is with much regret that I am tendering my resignation. I would like to thank everyone for the past four years. It has been a rewarding challenge, but now it is time for someone else to take on the role and take the drum section forward.”

The band said that it has started a search for a full-time replacement and that, until one is found, Marc Johnston, a snare drummer in the drum section, will hold down the corps.

“Nicky has achieved much in his time with the band taking a new corps to the top of the grade,” Grampian Police Pipe-Major Drew Sinclair said. “He is an excellent player, a really good leading-drummer and I am sad to see him go. However, he felt he had to make the move and I wish him well.”

The band has said that it is open to inquiries from any drummers who are interested in being considered for the position, and can contact them at 0845 600-5-700 or via the band’s website.

Winners of Grade 2 at the Scottish Championships, Grampian Police finished second at the World’s and Cowal, and third at the European and the British. The best finish for the band’s drum section was third Cowal; its worst was thirteenth at the European.

A video of the band’s performance at the 2010 World’s Grade 2 Final can be found at the pipes|drums Channel on YouTube, along with the other Grade 2 finalists.