The support from the Gordon Duncan Memorial Trust has been invaluable in empowering hundreds of young people to showcase their talents in traditional Scottish music at this year’s Scottish Schools Pipe Band Championships. By sponsoring the freestyle category, the Trust’s generosity has not only inspired the 2,000+ attendees at the event but also strengthened the connection these young musicians have with Scotland’s rich musical heritage. This support has allowed the bands to celebrate their unity as teams, experience the joy of performing, and embrace the true sense of community that comes with being part of a traditional Scottish band.

We trust that Gordon would have been proud of the incredible performances delivered by all the young musicians. Our heartfelt thanks go to the Trust for its invaluable contribution, and it was both an honour and a pleasure to have GDMT trustees join us at the Championships.

The winners of the Freestyle Competition for 2025 was Sgoil Bagh a'Chaisteil from Castlebay on the Isle of Barra.
The winners of the Freestyle Competition for 2025 was Sgoil Bagh a’Chaisteil from Castlebay on the Isle of Barra.
Submitted by: Lindsay MacKenzie
Year of award:  2025
Website:  https://thechampionships.org.uk