The search is on for a piping-hot family to launch this year’s musical extravaganza in Moray.
As part of Scotland’s year of history and heritage, the organisers of Piping at Forres are looking for a clan steeped in the traditional instrument to launch this year’s event.
Learning to play the pipes is commonly passed down through the generations. And organisers believe there would be no better way to commence June’s competition than a performance from relatives spanning several decades.
Event director Joanna Taylor said: “Piping is clearly a huge part of Scotland’s heritage and, more often than not, it’s also a passion.
“This year, we wanted to embrace the theme and thought a fun way would be to celebrate a family for whom piping has been an important aspect of their lives.
“It would be superb if we could get a family of pipers through the generations – but equally, it may be that we find a family who are relatively new to piping, but everyone gets involved.
“It’s about celebrating a significant part of Scotland’s history and also demonstrating how the fantastic instrument will continue to be relevant in the future.”
More than 100 pipe bands from around the world will participate in the European Championships event in Grant Park on June 24.
The chosen family will strut their stuff at the launch event, in addition to winning a family pass to watch the competitors perform in the rings and an event hamper containing the eclectic flavours of Moray.
Jo Robinson, regional director of Visit Scotland, said: “Whether as a competitor or spectator, Piping at Forres is an event not to be missed and the appeal to celebrate a family immersed in the piping scene adds another fantastic element to this year’s event.”
Families wanting to enter should email admin@pipingatforres.com and explain in 300 words why they should be chosen to launch the event.
