The Pipes and Drums have become a familiar sound around Dollar with the school band gaining a reputation amongst locals for their early morning practice.
And the hard work has paid off, with Dollar Academy blowing away the competition at the Scottish Schools’ Pipe Band Championships on Sunday, coming first in their 12th consecutive victory.
The schools’ competition, which took place at Fettes Academy in Edinburgh on 19th June, is regarded to be one of the high lights in the annual piping calendar, with 14 schools from all across Scotland taking part.
The pipe band at Dollar Academy has reigned champion every year since 2000. However, this year saw stiff competition, so they were delighted to retain their title.
Dollar Academy is famous for the high standard of its band. In addition to the Scottish Schools title, they are also current winners of the world pipe band championships in their age category. And the reputation has gone global, with invites to perform coming from around the world, including a visit to Sri Lanka earlier this year.
Craig Stewart, contingent commander for the Dollar Academy’s combined cadet force and responsible for the school pipe band, commented: ‘This is a fantastic victory for the school pipe band, and a great way to end the school term.
Piping is taught from beginner level at the school, and we are very proud of these achievements’.
Attentions are now turned to the summer season of competitions, as we wish the school band the best of luck as they compete to retain their title as world champions.