Local pipers take first place
On April 30 the Grand Celtic Pipe Band of Fergus achieved an exciting victory to kick off its competition season, officials state.
The band, made up of members of all ages from the Fergus/Elora community and led by Pipe Major Jamie Blacklock, received the first place prize, Grade V division, in the Kiwanis Piping and Drumming Competition in London, Ontario.
This hardworking ensemble band, sponsored by the Highlander Brew Company of Ontario, practices year-long to be ready to vie for awards in summer piping and drumming competitions, this year beginning with the London event.
After the bands played their finest medleys on Saturday, judges commented on what they look for in a winning entry, including variety and difficulty level in selection of pieces, unison of instruments, musicality, timing, and individual contribution to the overall performance.
The Grand Celtic Pipe Band’s talent and dedication has clearly paid off and both the band and its fans are hopeful for a successful competition season to come, representing Fergus at Scottish events across Ontario, officials state.
