Activities

Our year is quite busy with numerous playing and training events, such as being part of the massed bands at one or two of the 6 nations rugby tournament matches (2005 so far) and playing a Beating of the Retreat at Edinburgh Castle, as well as first class tuition from Army, TA and ACF instructors at the Annual Piping & Drumming cadre. We also play smaller engagements such as a mini-band at fetes and The Black Watch Battalion ACF Burns Supper, so our range is varied, dependant on requirements and personnel available. We are aslo attending our annual training camp, involving further piping and drumming towards progressing up the proficiency ladder, as well as developing instrumental and band skills.

In 2005, two advanced cadets pipers from our group were given the opportunity to attend the annual week long Advanced Cadet Piping & Drumming Course, under the instruction of some of the most experienced instructors in the Army, based at the Army School of Bagpiping and Highland Drumming in Edinburgh, along with other advanced musicians from other Battalions. This is a very positive experience for the young people who attended. At the end of the week, the less experienced pipers and drummers from the Scottish ACF Battalions attended a workshop at the School, with a general piping and drumming competition on the Sunday. Our pipers and drummers did exceptionally well, picking up 1st in both the Mini Band and Quartet competition, amongst other individual titles in different categories, including 3rd place in the Highland Dancing. A great achievement and invaluable experience for all.

In 2006, Cpl. Lindsey Kay won 'Most Improved Piper Overall' at the annual Piping and Drumming Cadre in Inverness. Our players also won best band performance as well as Most Improved Beginner Piper, Most Improved Intermediate Piper and Most Improved Bass Drummer. Our side drummers also did very well in their respective groups. All in all, a very good week for us, one which we can build upon for the future. Well done to all.

In 2007, the annual Easter Cadre saw us once again do very well in all disciplines, with D/M Jonathan Hynd taking Best Side Drummer. Once again, beating of Retreat looms in a few weeks, the Lord Mayor's Parade in Liverpool, our own Annual Camp in July and another October Advanced course and weekend workshop/ competition beckons, as well as one or two of our own local 'gigs'.

We are available for engagements, depending on requirements, so please do get in touch HERE and discuss the possibility of the Black Watch Bn. Army Cadet Force Pipes & Drums playing at your function.