The Solo Piping competitions start at 9.30am and run throughout the day. There are Senior (18+) and Junior (U18) categories, and local competitors are welcome.

Convener: Mr John Wright, Braemar Royal Highland Society, Committee Member

The Open Senior section for both Pibroch & Light Music i.e. March, Strathspey & Reel is for over-18s — but if someone younger than 18 has reached a high enough standard they may apply to the Convener to enter.

Trophies are awarded for different aspects of playing and each section is judged by three judges who are appointed by our committee. A gold medal is awarded to the winner of the Pibroch and silver medal to the best overseas player, provided they have not won the gold medal.

Winning the gold medal at the Braemar Gathering is an aspiration for many pipers, and competition is of the highest standard — with pipers coming from all over the world to compete. Entrant numbers are limited to 25 for the Pibroch and 30 for the Light Music, and entry is by application to the BRHS.

The Open Under-18 competition is run in the same format as the senior boards but with only two judges for each section. Although there is no special prize for the best overseas piper, there are trophies for best player in each section and best overall.

Piping is in the roots of the Society and is strongly supported. To keep it alive and thriving in this area of Scotland, there are also competitions for players who qualify as local to our area and for those pipers who are local to our kindred Gatherings at Aboyne, Ballater & Lonach.