The leader of a Moray pipe band that has enjoyed a “phenomenal” year has expressed his admiration for the commitment and dedication of his musicians.
Flight Sergeant John Grant from 2622(Highland) Squadron at RAF Lossiemouth founded the RAF Reserve unit’s pipe band in 1999.
He says that 2014 has been the pinnacle of the 15 years he has been involved with the band, who recently recorded four wins in the World Pipe Band Championships on Glasgow Green.
The quadruple victory saw the band see off challenges from pipe bands from the United States, Canada and Australia as well as exceptionally strong challenges from all parts of the UK.
[box] “I am in total admiration of the commitment all our players have all given to the Highland Squadron Pipes and Drums…”[/box] Victory in Glasgow followed the band’s success in the Scottish, British and European championships this year, an achievement John says will be very hard to follow.
He said: “I am in total admiration of the commitment all our players have all given to the Highland Squadron Pipes and Drums and so proud of the Bands achievement.
“I am amazed by the number of congratulatory messages we received from so many other Bands including ones we competed against. Our win at the world championships truly was the pinnacle of the last 15 years.”
Following their Glasgow success the oldest player in the band, bass drummer Ali McInnes from Alves, said: “In all the years I’ve been in different bands this is just the best feeling ever.”
Meanwhile the band’s youngest member, Bruce Craig from Rothes, summed his feelings up with one word – “awesome”.
The year is not yet over the 2622(Highland) Squadron’s pipes and drums as they have been engaged to appear at the Inverness Military Tattoo from September 4 to 7, while in October they will compete in the RAF Pipe Band Championships.