Inveraray & District Pipe Band take the title of 2024 World Pipe Band Champions

This year’s World Pipe Band Champions have been crowned after a spectacular finale of the renowned international contest in Glasgow.

Article Source: Glasgow Life
Last Updated: 19 August 2024 9:58

Inveraray & District Pipe Band took the coveted title after seeing off stiff competition from runners-up Field Marshal Montgomery of Lisburn, Northern Ireland, and Simon Fraser University (Canada) who finished third.

It is the third time that Inveraray & District has been crowned World Champions, having previously lifted the trophy in 2017 and 2019. This summer has proved a winning season for the Argyll and Bute band as it also took the top prize at the Scottish Pipe Band Championships, held in July in Dumbarton.

The prestigious international championships, which are the pinnacle of the pipe band competition calendar, were held on Friday 16 and Saturday 17 August at Glasgow Green.

With 204 bands from 13 countries taking part in the 2024 ‘Worlds’, more than 7,000 pipers and drummers took to the field to compete in the ultimate battle of the bands. The biggest contingent – 119 bands – was from Scotland, the second largest – with 25 bands – was from Northern Ireland, and the third largest national representation was from the USA, which entered 18 bands.

The line-up of nations competing also included countries as far afield as Australia, Oman and Hong Kong – which took part in the championships for the first time.

A much-loved event that’s hugely popular with spectators from near and far, the contest always attracts thousands of visitors to Glasgow Green to experience the stirring sights and sounds, and memorable atmosphere, of the event. Attendance at this year’s premier pipes and drums showcase was around 35,000. Audiences all over the world were also able to view it thanks to live streaming by the BBC and via the www.theworlds.co.uk

Glasgow, a UNESCO City of Music, has a long association with the World Pipe Band Championships, having first hosted them back in 1948, and staging every edition of the event since 1986.

Every year, the Worlds culminates in an impressive spectacle when all of the competing bands march into the arena and past the Chieftain of the Worlds to assemble on the field and play ‘Scotland The Brave’ together, before the presentation of well over 100 trophies across the various contest grades, and the final announcement of the new World Champions.

The event is delivered by culture and sport charity Glasgow Life on behalf of The Royal Pipe Band Association with support from EventScotland, part of VisitScotland’s Events Directorate.

Glasgow’s Lord Provost Jacqueline McLaren, Chieftain of The World Pipe Band Championships, said: “Glasgow is very proud of its long association with the Worlds, and privileged to host an annual event which not only has such significance to the global pipe band community but is also an important celebration of Scotland’s culture and heritage. The championships are immensely valued; they enhance the city’s international reputation as an outstanding events destination, boost tourism, and contribute greatly to our local economy.

“We are grateful to The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association for continuing to trust us to stage its flagship contest, and Event Scotland for its support of the event. Our thanks also go to every one of the incredibly talented musicians who have gathered on Glasgow Green to treat our audiences to an incredible display of their skills, and to everyone who joined us to support this year’s thrilling championships. And our congratulations go to the 2024 World Champions, Inveraray & District Pipe Band.”

Colin Mulhern, Chief Executive of The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association, said: “Competition for this year’s Worlds was incredibly close, and our top Grade 1 bands battling for the ultimate title of World Champions had a fiercely-fought contest. They, and all of our competitors this year, did themselves, their bands, and their countries proud. And Inveraray & District are very worthy winners; their achievement in securing the 2024 World Champions title was outstanding and they deserve huge congratulations.

“It was fantastic to have so many great bands, from so many countries, taking part in this year’s Worlds – and of course, so many supporters and spectators coming together for this year’s championships. That’s a clear indication of the level of talent that’s thriving in the international pipe band community, and the passion of musicians the world over. It also demonstrates the strength of global interest there is in the championships, and in the traditional music and culture of Scotland.”

Paul Bush OBE, VisitScotland Director of Events, said: “The World Pipe Band Championships is the pinnacle of the piping calendar, and it was fantastic to see more than 7,000 drummers and pipers from around the world travelling to take part in this global event.

“Glasgow Green once again provided the perfect stage for a truly memorable and competitive competition. Well done to all the bands who took part and congratulations to Inveraray & District Pipe Band on being crowned 2024 World Pipe Band Champions.

“EventScotland is proud to support the World Pipe Band Championships through our International Programme. It is part of an enviable portfolio of events that showcase and reinforce Scotland’s position as a world-leading events destination.”

Highlights from this year’s World Pipe Band Championships will be broadcast on BBC Scotland on Friday 23 August at 8pm, and there will be another chance to watch the programme on Saturday 24 August at 3pm.

Next year’s World Pipe Band Championships will be held on Friday 15 and Saturday 16 August 2025.

Got a story to share? Send us an email at hello[@]whatsonnetwork.co.uk

Latest Glasgow News

SAY Award unveils Longlist

The Scottish Album of the Year (SAY) Award, today reveals the 20 outstanding Scottish albums on 2024's Longlist.

Celentanos teams up with The Gate for a culinary takeover to celebrate Negroni Week next week

Modern Scottish pub, The Gate is teaming up with foodie favourite, Celentano's and Campari to host a culinary takeover to celebrate Negroni Week next weekend.

Unsigned band wrest sell out 2,000 capacity Barrowland Ballroom

Unsigned Edinburgh indie rock band wrest have sold out the legendary Barrowland Ballroom in Glasgow - without industry support, a manager or label backing.

New drinks delivery service launches in Glasgow

Glasgow's newest drinks delivery service is the first in the UK to offer TikTok's hottest trending drinks – and some households might get a surprise visit from a leading mixologist

Fat Hippo Glasgow launch brand new breakfast menu

Is BURG-fast the most important meal of the day? Burger giants Fat Hippo would agree as they throw their buns into the breakfast menu ring this month.

BBC Debate Night returns for 2024

BBC Scotland's topical TV programme Debate Night returns later this month and they are searching for people to be part of the big studio audience.

New Scottish music awards receives over 3000 nominations in first 48 hours

The recently launched Scottish Live Music Awards (SLMA), in association with GO Radio, has seen an overwhelming response, receiving over 3000 nominations in just the first 2 days.

Courtney Bowman to star as Lauren in Kinky Boots

Courtney Bowman will join Strictly's Johannes Radebe in Kinky Boots at the King's Theatre Glasgow in February!

First look at new production of War Horse, the award winning National Theatre production coming to the Theatre Royal Glasgow

Brand new production images have been released for the National Theatre's acclaimed production of War Horse, based on Michael Morpurgo's beloved novel.

Govan walking group hailed as a highlight of the week by Care Home Residents

A Govan social enterprise has partnered with a local care home to provide much-needed exercise, stimulation and entertainment for residents.

Festive Fever: Best Christmas Party Nights in Glasgow for 2024

'Tis the season to eat, drink, and be very merry, so make sure you do it in style this year at one of Glasgow’s top shared party nights!

Gravity Active launches incredible new deals, just in time for Autumn

Gravity Active is excited to introduce two brand new offers, set to provide families with unforgettable experiences this Autumn.

Platform brews up new craft beer experiences including Oktoberfest & Hands On Brew School at microbrewery

Multi-faceted venue, Platform is gearing up for a season of craft beer with two brand-new experiences launching this autumn.

Sports clubs across Glasgow and the west awarded funding from Aldi Scotland Awards

Aldi Scotland has invested £7,500 in nine local sports clubs across Glasgow and the West, as part of its annual Scottish Sport Fund initiative.

Sunny Govan lives up to its name as it puts best foot forward for Footbridge Festival

Govan put its best foot forward as it staged a free one-off festival on Saturday to mark the opening of the new Govan-Partick Bridge.

Edinburgh Butter Company announces search for the Best Croissant in Scotland

The Edinburgh Butter Company is excited to announce the launch of Scotland’s first-ever croissant competition, open to bakers across the country.

Get ready to be blown away... Twisters returns to 4DX at Cineworld

Hold onto your popcorn, because Cineworld is thrilled to announce the whirlwind return of the blockbuster hit Twisters to 4DX screens nationwide, due to an overwhelming tornado of popular demand!

The Force reawakens at Vue venues in Scotland this September as the Star Wars saga returns to the big screen

Film fans are invited to revisit a galaxy far, far away this September as every main Star Wars film brings some of cinema's most iconic heroes and villains back to the big screen.

Great Scottish Run: 4 weeks to go

Are you ready to take on Scotland's greatest running event at this year's AJ Bell Great Scottish Run in Glasgow on Sunday 6 October?

Govan care home residents embrace street art at the first purpose built graffiti studio in Scotland

Care home residents unleashed their creativity during a day out at SWG3’s Yardworks Studio which saw them trying their hand at graffiti art.

Cast announced for Aladdin, the first ever Disney production to come to Glasgow!

Disney Theatrical Productions present the critically acclaimed Broadway and West End musical Aladdin which will land in Glasgow for a limited season!

Freshers... this bar NEEDS to be on your bucket list

What better way to break the ice with your new flatmates than with some competitive fun and few drinks? Cue Social Darts at Flight Club!

Unique venue offers the perfect stage

Festival-goers attending the fourth Music at the Multiverse festival at the weekend enjoyed fantastic live music, sunshine and showers in one of Scotland’s most spectacular outdoor venues.

Thousands from Northern Ireland set sail for Scottish universities

Students go FREE with Stena Line on Cairnryan and Liverpool routes.

Buchanan Galleries honours emergency service heroes with shopping discounts

Glasgow shopping centre, Buchanan Galleries, announces savings and discounts for National Emergency Services Day available to local NHS and emergency service heroes.

Olivier Award winning musical Pride and Prejudice* (*Sort Of) returns to Glasgow

The Theatre Royal are thrilled to announce that a new production of Pride and Prejudice*(*Sort Of) will be returning to Glasgow in March 2025!

Blockbuster Discovering Degas exhibition enters final weeks at The Burrell Collection

A blockbuster exhibition of works by one of the world's most revered artists, Edgar Degas, currently enthralling visitors at The Burrell Collection, will close on Monday 30th September.

Savour the iconic streets of Tokyo on a transformative six course culinary adventure with Six by Nico

Conceptual dining experience Six by Nico will transports guests to the vibrant streets of the Japanese capital with their next innovative tasting menu, Tokyo!