Lochlann McKay, 1992-2013
Lochlann McKay, a well-known up-and-coming piper with the Grade 2 Lomond & Clyde Pipe Band of Glasgow, died suddenly on June 2, 2013, at the age of 21.
Born February 20, 1992, Lochlann was taught by Keith Bowes and originally was a member of the Johnstone Pipe Band, beginning in that organization’s Novice Juvenile band, which was promoted to Juvenile in 2009. He joined the Grade 2 Johnstone Pipe Band in 2010, and then became a member of Grade 2 Williamwood in 2011. When Williamwood could not compete for the whole of the 2011 season, he joined Lomond & Clyde.
He was also a member of the National Youth Pipe Band of Scotland, a non-competing band organized by the National Piping Centre and made up of many of Scotland’s most talented young pipers and drummers.
Lochlann McKay was a popular member of Lomond & Clyde and, according to the band, “His tall stature could seem imposing but it wouldn’t be long until his warmth would come out. He was always cheery and always had a big infectious smile on his face. It was hard not to have this rub off on everyone in his presence.”
The band’s opening tune in its 2013 medley, “Heather Grant of Strathyre,” includes harmonies and thirds written by him for the band. “A fitting tribute that he’ll still be with us,” a band spokesman said.
The funeral service will be held at Inchinnan Parish Church on June 10 at noon. The family has asked that all piping and drumming friends of Lochlann attend in uniform with their instruments to play with both the Lomond & Clyde and Johnstone bands in a special playing tribute, and that those wishing to take part should be at the church by 11 am. The massed band will play before the service, and then lead the funeral procession along the streets of Inchinnan to Inchinnan Cemetery.
“This One’s for Lochlann,” a lament composed by Lochlann’s younger cousin, Robyn McKay, will be played at graveside.
According to reports, Police Scotland said that there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding Lochlann McKay’s death.
Our condolences go out to Lochlann McKay’s family and friends at this sad time.
Lochlann was a first class piper and friend. Always immaculately turned out, he would immediately light up any room he walked into. Many a time I would hear my dad ranting on at him to practice more but with his huge amount of natural ability, it came so easily to him. He will be sorely missed by both Johnstone and Lomond and Clyde Pipe Bands and as one of the boys in the band commented last night, “the band will certainly be an uglier one without his handsome looks and smile.” Proud to call him a band mate and neighbour.