Pipe Band World Championships 2026

The St Andrew’s College Pipe Band continued its remarkable run of success at the 2026 World Pipe Band Championships in Glasgow, delivering an exceptional performance to place third in the U18 Juvenile Grade against top young bands from around the world.

“It was a real privilege to be there and see our dedicated and hardworking students deliver such an outstanding performance,” says Rector Mark Wilson. “Pipe Band Director Richard Hawke, our tutors, staff, parents, and supporters were delighted and we are all immensely proud of the result.”

Competing as one of seven bands in the top Juvenile Grade, St Andrew’s secured third place with its traditional March, Strathspey, and Reel performance. The drum corps also placed second in the Juvenile Grade drumming competition, helping the band become the highest-placed international band across all Juvenile grades.

The Pipe Band spent two weeks in Scotland ahead of the championships, combining rehearsals, performances, and lead-up competitions with opportunities to explore the country. Highlights included visits to Stirling Castle and St Andrews, the College’s ancestral home, and a performance at the ruins of St Andrews Cathedral.

Before the World Championships, the band placed first overall in the Juvenile Grade at the Perth Highland Games. Pipers Sam Foote (Year 13) and Finlay Trewinnard (Year 11) also competed in solo piping at the Crieff Highland Games both achieving third placings in their Senior and Junior March Strathspey and Reel events. During their time in Glasgow, students also performed as part of Piping Live!, and Maggie McConnochie (Year 12) and Sam Foote (Year 13) were invited to compete in Pipe Idol, the individual world competition for U21 pipers.