Updated: Drambuie-Kirkliston disbands

In a surprising move, the 2005 Grade 2 RSPBA Champions of Champions, Drambuie-Kirkliston Pipe Band, has chosen to disband rather than continue to search for other funding after losing its sponsorship from the Drambuie Liqueur Company. The band had been set to start its first season in Grade 1 after it was officially upgraded.

According to Pipe-Major Ian Duncan, “At a meeting of members it was decided, due to the end of the Drambuie sponsorship and no other sponsorship forthcoming, to dissolve the Drambuie-Kirkliston Pipe Band.”

Duncan went on to thank all members for their commitment, and, in particular, Pipe-Sergeant Steven Small and Leading-Drummer Alex Dudgeon.

Duncan also said that he was tired of making the three-hour round-trip journey from Perth to practices near Edinburgh, preferring instead to devote time to his family. Piper & Drummer Online has learned that Duncan has had at least four offers since September to lead other Grade 1 bands.

According to reports from other Grade 1 bands, former members of Drambuie-Kirkliston have already visited practices, considering their options for their future. Sources also report that former Drambuie band members have been told that they can keep their uniform. The band had three different kilts, kilt jackets and full “number-one” dress.

The Drambuie company withdrew sponsorship of the band after experiencing financial challenges and redeveloping its marketing and sponsorship programs. The majority of the world’s Grade 1 bands, including the 78th Fraser Highlanders and Boghall & Bathgate Caledonia, manage to operate without a significant sponsorship.

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