THE TOWN THAT has been so successfully hosting the European Pipe Band Championships has also become home to a successful maker – of bagpipes!
Moray’s MSP, Richard Lochhead, called in to see for himself the progress being made by the family-run business set up on the Greshop Industrial Estate two years ago.
He met with Burgess, Fiona and Scott Hay, with Burgess and Scott demonstrating the process involved in the making of bagpipes – including the detailed craftsmanship involved in turning blocks of African blackwood into high-quality instruments.
Burgess Bagpipes are producers of three different types of bagpipe – Scott Hay giving the MSP a demonstration of the style of Scottish Small Pipes, Border Pipes and Highland Bagpipes each designed and created by the family.
Following his visit Mr Lochhead said: “It was great to visit this young local business who are producing high end, quality instruments. The family have a long family heritage of bagpipes and they clearly have a phenomenal amount of knowledge, as well as care and passion for the instrument.
“I learned a huge amount during my visit, from the process of producing Scottish bagpipes which begins with blocks of African blackwood, to the different sound and use of the three kinds of pipes made by the family. On top of the fantastic skills they have for designing bagpipes, Scott is also an incredibly talented piper and I enjoyed have the chance to hear him play.
“There’s a lot to be positive about in Forres and Moray just now, with new businesses popping up and I have to say that it’s great to have this specialist business based locally, developing a strong reputation, and I hope they go from strength to strength.
“They are inspirational – and who knows maybe I’ll try and learn the bagpipes one day!”
To learn more about Burgess Bagpipes visit them online.