About Us

​

Under the leadership of Pipe Major Iain McFadden, Dunnottar Pipes and Drums are a community focused pipe band playing at many community events across the northeast of Scotland and further afield every year. We are a voluntary charitable organisation with a mission to spread the appreciation, knowledge and enjoyment of pipes and pipe bands to the wider community while
providing instruction in both piping and drumming.

​

Established in 1996 under the name of Craigmarroin Pipe Band, the band initially practiced in Muchalls Village Hall and established a strong foundation and learning structure. Pipe Major Iain McFadden led the band in its infancy establishing its place in the North East playing within the local community. The band then relocated practice to Newtonhill and became Newtonhill Pipe Band until April 2024.

 

Our decision to rebrand and change in name to Dunnottar Pipes and Drums signifies band developments aimed at better reflecting our collective identity. Over the 30+ years of existence, we have instructed over 300 individuals in drums and pipes, with many successfully undertaking SQA and Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association examinations.

​

Congratulations to our recent cohort of young players who passed their SQA piping exams in March
2024 (Levels 2, 4, & 5):

​

Reife De Garis Hunter - Level 2

Jamie Boyne - Level 4

Issac Smith - Level 4

Calum Graham - Level 5

Tain Robbie - Level 5

Abbie Wright - Level 5

​

Dunnottar Pipes and Drums is a member of the RSPBA, the recognised Centre for Excellence for the promotion and development of Pipe Band Music internationally. We are currently registered at grade 4B level. We register individuals with RSPBA when they reach the required playing skills and experience to play with the band.

​

Dunnottar Pipes and Drums is dependent on the commitment and dedication of our band member and volunteers who support us, and proudly wears the Ancient Hunting Mathieson tartan.

​