Talla Shomhairle, Aros, Portree, Isle of Skye, 8 November 2008

The NYPBS at Celtic Connections 2008 (www.thepipingcentre.co.uk)

IMMACULATELY dressed, meticulously drilled, and scrupulously trained, the National Youth Pipe Band of Scotland took Portree’s Aros Centre by storm on Saturday night. As six drummers came on stage and took up their instruments (three snare drums, one tenor, one bass, a full drum kit, and even a set of bongos at one point), a couple of wayward haircuts and an exchange of grins suggested this might be more than the familiar pipe band experience.

Indeed it was. It began with a phenomenal display of skill and dexterity from the young drummers, taking the rhythm from Scotland to the Caribbean and beyond with an exuberance that was infectious.

The arrival of eight pipers, to a traditional marching beat, did nothing to restrain the innovative programme. The band’s senior members are responsible for arranging the repertoire, which included several of their own compositions – hornpipes, jigs and reels were all given fresh, exciting treatment, without losing their original roots.

Solo performances by pipers Alasdair Henderson and Cameron Drummond reminded us of the tradition, while a virtuoso double act by snare drummers David Ross and David Henderson took us once again into new territory.

One of the basic tenets of the NYPBS is to illustrate our traditional music while pushing the boundaries of performance. That they do it so well is a tribute to the organisation, which was formed in 2002 and brings together selected young pipers and drummers from all over Scotland.

Training courses and camps, combined with touring performances from Campbeltown to China via Aberdeen, Spain, Mexico and Dundee, provide unrivalled opportunities for some of the country’s most talented young musicians.

Before the evening performance, 24 young Skye pipers and drummers had attended workshops led by members of the band, and four of them joined the seniors on stage. A great experience for these youngsters, and a great evening’s entertainment for piping and non-piping listeners alike.

© Terry Williams, 2008

Links

• National Youth Pipe Band of Scotland
• Aros