The 13th annual pipes|drums New Year’s Honours!
2014 Drummer of the Year
Jim Kilpatrick
He led the Shotts & Dykehead Caledonia corps to a World Drumming Championship in 2014 and was one point from taking the RSPBA Champion of Champions prize. In case people haven’t noticed, Kilpatrick often starts a season with new players, yet manages to produce world-class sections year after year. Almost every year one of his drummers leaves to become a leading-drummer for another top-grade band, another mark of Kilpatrick’s greatness as a leader. Add to that his constant teaching and travelling for drumming worldwide, and he gains our 2014 Drummer of the Year award.
Also considered (alphabetical order):
- Stephen Creighton – the St. Laurence O’Toole lead-tip took his section to the RSPBA Champion of Champions aggregate prize, greatly helping the band to stronger placings and a return to serious World’s contention in 2014.
- Steven McWhirter – another World Solo Drumming title further cements McWhirter’s place in the Pantheon of Pipe Band Drummers. Stronger showings from his Inveraray & District corps in 2014 possibly foreshadow even greater things to come.
Always love this year end wrap and seeing the best recognised. Glad that it is not always all about prizes won but also about other accomplishments to piping and drumming. Well done all!!!