Sutherland drummers turn out for Highland youth musicians finale
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Seven drummers from a Sutherland based pipe band represented half of the drum core in a Highland Youth Pipe Band "Beating Retreat" on Sunday June 12.
The event, a finale concert held in Inverness Leisure Centre, was held to mark the end of the Highland youth musicians' 2021/22 season.
The seven drummers, from Dornoch Pipe Band, were all pupils of tutor Drew Caldwell, were assisted on the bass drum by guest artiste Steven Fraser.
The Highland band was made up of almost 30 pupils from various parts of the Highlands.
Aided by their tutors, they played various sets interspersed with a musical world tour from members of Lochaber High School Senior Wind Band, Inverness Schools Wind Band and East Highland Wind Band.
The concert was brought to a close when the bands joined forces for a stunning rendition of Highland Cathedral. Then, having taken the salute from Steve Walsh OBE, chief executive of High Life Highland, the bands performed Scotland the Brave as they marched off.
In his closing address Mr Walsh paid tribute to music development officer, Norman Bolton and his tutors for the exceptional level of talent on display.
Drum tutor Drew Caldwell praised the commitment of his pupils and the parents.
He said: "Well done to all, and to parents for transporting these youngsters to weekly practices and parades on behalf of the Dornoch band, as well as various trips to Inverness in preparation for this event."
A spokesperson for the Dornoch band said: "Dornoch Pipe Band are immensely proud of these drummers who have quickly formed the backbone of the band, and are indebted to Drew for the work he has done bringing these young people to the standard that was evident at today’s concert and can be witnessed each Saturday evening in the town square at 8pm.
