‘Memories to last forever’ for Caithness Youth Pipe Band members after historic trip to Edinburgh
Young musicians from across the county made history as the Caithness Youth Pipe Band took part in the inaugural Edinburgh Tartan Parade – a new national celebration of Scottish heritage and culture.
The event brought together pipe bands, Highland dancers, clan representatives and performers from across Scotland and beyond.
The Caithness group were one of the most northerly bands in attendance and were given the honour of joining a special evening concert at the Usher Hall, performing alongside internationally renowned act, the Red Hot Chilli Pipers.
Organised by Tartan Parade Scotland, the event is inspired by the long-running New York Tartan Day Parade and marked its debut in the Scottish capital with a lively and colourful programme to celebrate 900 years of Edinburgh’s history, as well as its modern-day diversity.
The parade itself began at the Royal Mile, winding its way through Cockburn Street and Waverley Bridge before concluding at the Mound Precinct, where spectators lined the streets to watch a vibrant display of music and movement.
The Caithness band were among a wide variety of groups taking part in the sunshine.
Band secretary Nancy Swanson commented: “There was an amazing variety of groups assembled – all kinds of musicians, dancers, dignitaries and such like.
“The atmosphere was tremendous, the streets were thronged with families and tourists and the sun shone throughout.”
Formed 25 years ago, Caithness Youth Pipe Band has grown steadily in recent years following a period of disruption during the Covid pandemic.
With members ranging in age from nine to late teens, the band has been under the musical leadership of Clare Miller since October, following the retirement of long-standing piping tutor Kevin Gunn.
Clare, a former band member herself, returned to the north after working with several bands in the south of Scotland and played a key role in securing the band’s invitation to the Edinburgh event.
She is supported by drumming tutors Nicol Simpson and Wullie Angus.
The band’s participation was made possible thanks to an extensive fundraising effort and support from a number of local and regional organisations.
Donations were received from the Lybster and Tannach Fund, Caithness and North Sutherland Fund, Foundation Scotland’s ABH Funds (Halkirk and District), the Mary Janet King Fund, and the Dounreay Employees Charity Fund.
The band also held a fundraising ceilidh in January.
Ongoing sponsorship has also played a part, with Gunn Contractors of Lybster committing to a full year of support, and Scrabster Harbour Trust continuing to back the band through its cruise season performances.
Perhaps the most memorable moment of the weekend came on Saturday evening when the band performed live on stage at a sold-out Usher Hall.
Ms Swanson added: “The venue was full to capacity and the evening was totally unforgettable – the memory will live with band members and their families and friends forever.
“The enthusiastic crowd wouldn’t allow the Red Hot Chilli Pipers off stage, they were still playing well after 11pm. It was a very special evening and the band were complimented by so many people.”
As the band marks its 25th year, plans are already in place for further performances, including a return to the Mey Games this summer.