Eventful summer planned for pipe band
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FORRES and District Pipe Band (FDPB) continues to go from strength-to-strength as it enters its busiest time of year.
Having already performed at Forres Vintage Car Theme Day, chairman John Channon is looking forward to outdoor competition season, starting at Banchory followed by Aberdeen and Mintlaw.
He said: "Competing has raised the standard of playing within the band and gives the youngsters a goal to achieve. However, we will never lose sight of our community roots.
"Forres Theme Day was a really enjoyable day out and we will continue to participate in all manner of community events throughout the season."
He added: "The development of our Junior Band proceeds apace and we are most fortunate to have the support of the Piping at Forres Legacy team led by Allen James to help source uniforms, instruments and all the logistics required to run the band.
"The youngsters have played several times in public this year notably at half time at Forres Mechanics on two occasions."
Starting on June 7, the juniors will play every second Friday at 7pm in Grant Park's sunken gardens in Grant Park throughout the summer until September 27.
FDPB, supported by the Scottish Schools Pipes and Drums Trust, are also introducing tuition to pipes and drums in the Forres schools in September.
"The am is to establish a permanent tuition programme in the community," said John. "This will allow our youngsters to achieve a Nat 5 (and above) qualification in the pipes and drums.
"They will be encouraged to play in the junior FDPB, which will also double up as the school band as required.
"This initiative will ensure the future of the Forres band and also provided an enjoyable skill for life for the youngsters, as well as preserving our heritage."
FDPB's current youth tuition scheme has 26 youngsters under instruction. However, it will end towards the end of the year as the pupils progress to the junior section and the schools programme.
John added: "It is a busy and exciting time for the band!"
