Pipe Band

The George Heriot’s School Pipe Band is a proud symbol of tradition, excellence, and the school’s ethos. With four pipe bands catering to a range of ages and experience levels, pupils progress through a structured and supportive programme as their musical skills develop.

Piping and drumming tuition is available from P3 to S6, led by a highly experienced team of instructors who are dedicated to nurturing each pupil’s individual progress. Pupils typically begin their journey with individual lessons, although some shared lessons are also available. In addition, chanter and drumming clubs—open to both junior and senior pupils—offer a welcoming environment to build core musical skills while working as part of a team and playing together as one.

The bands are a vibrant part of school life, performing at key events such as the annual Service of Remembrance, Founders Day, school concerts, and public parades. Recent years have seen the pipe bands go on residential trips to New York for the annual Tartan Day Parade and also to Brittany for the Festival Interceltique de Lorient, performing to audiences of thousands. Charity engagements are a regular feature with the band supporting a wide range of events through performances, including annual contributions to the Scottish Poppy Appeal and Royal British Legion events, further instilling a sense of service and community responsibility among its members.

The bands represent Heriot’s at local and national competitions, proudly wearing the Hunting Stewart tartan of the School’s Combined Cadet Force (CCF). The pipe band is widely regarded as one of the finest school pipe bands in the country, regularly placing in the top three at Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association (RSPBA) major championships, and earning a reputation for musical excellence and professionalism. Pupils also have regular opportunities to perform in solo competitions, representing the school at the very highest level, at prestigious events such as the Northern Meeting Piping Competitions and the World Solo Drumming Championships.

Former pupils have gone on to perform with top-level Grade 1 pipe bands and compete in prestigious solo competitions, continuing their musical journey at the pinnacle of the piping and drumming world, thanks to the strong foundation laid out during their time at Heriot’s.

Participation in the pipe band programme fosters not only musical ability, but also confidence, collaboration, and discipline. Rooted in history and driven by passion, the George Heriot’s School Pipe Band is a cherished part of what makes Heriot’s truly unique.