It has long been an ambition of mine to establish a piping competition which challenges the competitors to play in a style which reconnects piping with its original Gaelic Roots:- Piobaireachd and its close association with Gaelic song and Dance Music (the strathspeys, reels and Jigs) and their inextricable links to the Hard Shoe Percussive Step Dance.

Without support from The GDMT the establishment of The Raasay (Restitution) Competition would not have been possible. I would like to record my heart felt appreciation of the financial support of the trust fund.

The competition is now in its third year and growing each year. It has become an important and culturally unique addition to the wealth of great piping witnessed in Scotland today and is now beginning to attract the biggest names on the established solo competition scene.

In time this competition will vitally contribute to a part of a lost Scottish identity.

Hamish Moore