MEET OUR TALENTED TEAM
INSPIRE AND DEVELOP PIPING TALENT
Callum Stamper
Commercial Director
Originally from the Lake District, Callum has built a career spanning major infrastructure, FMCG and international trade before joining The National Piping Centre in early 2023. Bringing a strong commercial, finance and ops background, he is passionate about creating sustainable organisations that balance commercial success with charitable purpose, ensuring meaningful and long-term impact for the communities they serve.
At the Centre, Callum is passionate about building a culture where people feel empowered to contribute, develop and succeed. He works across the organisation to translate ambition into action, bringing teams together behind a shared vision while helping to ensure the Centre remains innovative, inclusive and ready for the opportunities ahead.
Away from work, Callum’s interests range from sport and music to history and current affairs. He is also a keen hill walker and enjoys any opportunity to spend time outdoors.
Originally from the Lake District, Callum has built a career spanning major infrastructure, FMCG and international trade before joining The National Piping Centre in early 2023. Bringing a strong commercial, finance and ops background, he is passionate about creating sustainable organisations that balance commercial success with charitable purpose, ensuring meaningful and long-term impact for the communities they serve.
At the Centre, Callum is passionate about building a culture where people feel empowered to contribute, develop and succeed. He works across the organisation to translate ambition into action, bringing teams together behind a shared vision while helping to ensure the Centre remains innovative, inclusive and ready for the opportunities ahead.
Away from work, Callum’s interests range from sport and music to history and current affairs. He is also a keen hill walker and enjoys any opportunity to spend time outdoors.
Finlay MacDonald
Director of Piping
Piping Live! Artistic Director
Finlay MacDonald is one of Scotland’s most respected pipers, composers and educators, with an international reputation built over more than two decades at the forefront of traditional music. Since 2020, he has served as Director of Piping at The National Piping Centre and Artistic Director of Piping Live!.
A highly accomplished performer and prolific composer, Finlay has toured extensively across four continents, recorded four albums, and published multiple collections of music. He has performed with a wide range of traditional music groups as well as the Scottish Power Pipe Band, and has worked with orchestras and military tattoos around the world to develop new music and bring piping to wider audiences and musical settings.
Finlay previously led the BMus Piping degree programme, delivered in partnership with the RCS, and has been part of the Piping Live! production team since the festival’s inception.
Piping Live! Artistic Director
Finlay MacDonald is one of Scotland’s most respected pipers, composers and educators, with an international reputation built over more than two decades at the forefront of traditional music. Since 2020, he has served as Director of Piping at The National Piping Centre and Artistic Director of Piping Live!.
A highly accomplished performer and prolific composer, Finlay has toured extensively across four continents, recorded four albums, and published multiple collections of music. He has performed with a wide range of traditional music groups as well as the Scottish Power Pipe Band, and has worked with orchestras and military tattoos around the world to develop new music and bring piping to wider audiences and musical settings.
Finlay previously led the BMus Piping degree programme, delivered in partnership with the RCS, and has been part of the Piping Live! production team since the festival’s inception.
Laura-Beth MacCrimmon
Head of Youth & Communities
Laura-Beth MacCrimmon (née Salter) is a musician and educator, and a recent addition to the NPC team as Head of Youth and Communities. Since moving to Glasgow in 2008, Laura-Beth has become a well kent face on the folk music scene, touring extensively with bands such as Kinnaris Q, The Shee and Shooglenifty .
As well as teaching at community and educational folk music events all over the UK, she has been guest mandolin tutor and examiner at Newcastle University and the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.
LB also has a long track record of organising events, from founding The Glasgow Mandolin Retreat with Ethan Setiawan, to programming The Late Night Sessions at Celtic Connections.
Laura-Beth MacCrimmon (née Salter) is a musician and educator, and a recent addition to the NPC team as Head of Youth and Communities. Since moving to Glasgow in 2008, Laura-Beth has become a well kent face on the folk music scene, touring extensively with bands such as Kinnaris Q, The Shee and Shooglenifty .
As well as teaching at community and educational folk music events all over the UK, she has been guest mandolin tutor and examiner at Newcastle University and the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.
LB also has a long track record of organising events, from founding The Glasgow Mandolin Retreat with Ethan Setiawan, to programming The Late Night Sessions at Celtic Connections.
Derek Doyle
Learning & Development Lead
Head of Non-formal Education
Derek joined the NPC team in 2016 as a visiting lecturer on our HNC Music – Piping course, later playing a key role in the development of the HND programme as his involvement with the organisation grew to an almost full-time capacity.
With nearly thirty-five years’ experience in music education — predominantly in further education, alongside three years teaching in primary schools — Derek brings extensive expertise in curriculum development, assessment verification, and quality assurance. He oversees standards and compliance across NPC’s current and emerging non-formal programmes.
Derek also coordinates NPC’s work towards becoming an approved Credit Rating Body with the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework Partnership and leads NPC’s engagement with Qualifications Scotland, Education Scotland, and Investors in People.
Head of Non-formal Education
Derek joined the NPC team in 2016 as a visiting lecturer on our HNC Music – Piping course, later playing a key role in the development of the HND programme as his involvement with the organisation grew to an almost full-time capacity.
With nearly thirty-five years’ experience in music education — predominantly in further education, alongside three years teaching in primary schools — Derek brings extensive expertise in curriculum development, assessment verification, and quality assurance. He oversees standards and compliance across NPC’s current and emerging non-formal programmes.
Derek also coordinates NPC’s work towards becoming an approved Credit Rating Body with the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework Partnership and leads NPC’s engagement with Qualifications Scotland, Education Scotland, and Investors in People.
Helen Urquhart
Head of Events
Employee Forum Representative
Helen started at the NPC in 2006 on a 3-month contract as a marketing assistant, only to finally move on in August 2012. After a few different roles, she found herself back at the NPC in June 2015, where she has stayed.
In 2022 she was promoted to Head of Events where she has been organising Piping Live!, enabling the growth of the festival – with just a few added grey hairs for the trouble. In 2023 she took on the Glenfiddich Piping Championship and organised and developed the NPC Charity Ball in amongst other flagship NPC events.
In her spare time, she is a keen runner, having completed 9 marathons. She supports her husband Darach at solo piping competitions across the summer, spending her weekends listening to pipes, much like her week days in the office.
Employee Forum Representative
Helen started at the NPC in 2006 on a 3-month contract as a marketing assistant, only to finally move on in August 2012. After a few different roles, she found herself back at the NPC in June 2015, where she has stayed.
In 2022 she was promoted to Head of Events where she has been organising Piping Live!, enabling the growth of the festival – with just a few added grey hairs for the trouble. In 2023 she took on the Glenfiddich Piping Championship and organised and developed the NPC Charity Ball in amongst other flagship NPC events.
In her spare time, she is a keen runner, having completed 9 marathons. She supports her husband Darach at solo piping competitions across the summer, spending her weekends listening to pipes, much like her week days in the office.
John Mulhearn
Head of Piping Studies
John Mulhearn is a Glasgow-based piper, composer, and educator whose career balances a deep respect for tradition with bold creative exploration. As Head of Piping Studies at the National Piping Centre, he leads the BMus Traditional Music (Piping) degree in partnership with the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. He also serves as Head of Programming for Piping Live!, further shaping the instrument’s global profile.
In 2025, he published his book, Let Piping Flourish: A Musical History of Highland Piping in Glasgow, an acclaimed living anthology of the city’s piping heritage. A founding member of TRYST and The Big Music Society, John’s diverse career spans solo competition success, innovative solo albums like Pipes and The Pipe Factory, and international teaching.
John Mulhearn is a Glasgow-based piper, composer, and educator whose career balances a deep respect for tradition with bold creative exploration. As Head of Piping Studies at the National Piping Centre, he leads the BMus Traditional Music (Piping) degree in partnership with the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. He also serves as Head of Programming for Piping Live!, further shaping the instrument’s global profile.
In 2025, he published his book, Let Piping Flourish: A Musical History of Highland Piping in Glasgow, an acclaimed living anthology of the city’s piping heritage. A founding member of TRYST and The Big Music Society, John’s diverse career spans solo competition success, innovative solo albums like Pipes and The Pipe Factory, and international teaching.
Hannah Power
Marketing Manager
As the Marketing Manager at the National Piping Centre, Hannah Power brings a creative, digital-first approach to promoting Scotland’s vibrant piping and drumming scene. After first picking up a camera at the age of 17 during a school expedition to India, Hannah went on to build a strong presence within the gig photography scene in Aberdeen, capturing live music and events across the city. Her passion for photography brought her to Glasgow, where she studied Media and Communications before graduating with distinction from an MSc in Marketing at Glasgow Caledonian University.
Since joining the NPC in 2024, Hannah has played a key role in shaping campaigns, social media content and digital storytelling, helping to connect audiences around the world with Scotland’s musical traditions.
Outside of work, Hannah can usually be found going to gigs, travelling to new countries or training in the gym as a powerlifter.
As the Marketing Manager at the National Piping Centre, Hannah Power brings a creative, digital-first approach to promoting Scotland’s vibrant piping and drumming scene. After first picking up a camera at the age of 17 during a school expedition to India, Hannah went on to build a strong presence within the gig photography scene in Aberdeen, capturing live music and events across the city. Her passion for photography brought her to Glasgow, where she studied Media and Communications before graduating with distinction from an MSc in Marketing at Glasgow Caledonian University.
Since joining the NPC in 2024, Hannah has played a key role in shaping campaigns, social media content and digital storytelling, helping to connect audiences around the world with Scotland’s musical traditions.
Outside of work, Hannah can usually be found going to gigs, travelling to new countries or training in the gym as a powerlifter.
Charles Comiskey
Finance Manager
Charles joined The National Piping Centre in 2012 after graduating from Glasgow Caledonian University with a First-Class Honours degree in Accountancy. Charles has since gone on to acquire his chartered qualification with ACCA.
In his role, Charles oversees the day-to-day finances of NPC across its various activities and closely works with other members of the team across projects such as Piping Live!, Youth and Communities and the annual Glenfiddich Piping Championship.
Away from NPC, Charles is a keen lover of music and, if asked, would say his taste covers all genres and is very eclectic.
Charles joined The National Piping Centre in 2012 after graduating from Glasgow Caledonian University with a First-Class Honours degree in Accountancy. Charles has since gone on to acquire his chartered qualification with ACCA.
In his role, Charles oversees the day-to-day finances of NPC across its various activities and closely works with other members of the team across projects such as Piping Live!, Youth and Communities and the annual Glenfiddich Piping Championship.
Away from NPC, Charles is a keen lover of music and, if asked, would say his taste covers all genres and is very eclectic.
Zoe White
Fundraising Manager
Emma Hill
NPC Clubs Producer
Piping Teacher
Growing up on Scotland’s West Coast, Emma has always been immersed in traditional music. She first learnt from both Angus D. and Angus J. MacColl before studying at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland’s Traditional Music programme, graduating in 2024.
During her studies, Emma developed a passion for teaching and has since worked with organisations including Fèis Latharna, Youth Music Initiative, and Scots School Albury in Australia. She now brings this experience to her role as Clubs Producer at the National Piping Centre.
Emma performs across both traditional and contemporary piping settings, including with the Rollin’ Drones and the Grade 1 Police Scotland & Federation Pipe Band.
Outside of music, you’ll either find Emma in the corner of a library or at the top of a Munro!
Piping Teacher
Growing up on Scotland’s West Coast, Emma has always been immersed in traditional music. She first learnt from both Angus D. and Angus J. MacColl before studying at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland’s Traditional Music programme, graduating in 2024.
During her studies, Emma developed a passion for teaching and has since worked with organisations including Fèis Latharna, Youth Music Initiative, and Scots School Albury in Australia. She now brings this experience to her role as Clubs Producer at the National Piping Centre.
Emma performs across both traditional and contemporary piping settings, including with the Rollin’ Drones and the Grade 1 Police Scotland & Federation Pipe Band.
Outside of music, you’ll either find Emma in the corner of a library or at the top of a Munro!
David Shedden
NYPBS Producer
David is a piper, performer, and educator from Glasgow working at the forefront of Scotland’s traditional music scene. Best known for his work with the band Assynt, he has toured extensively and released two acclaimed studio albums: Road to the North (2018) and Where From Here (2023).
David began learning at The National Piping Centre before studying with the legendary Donald MacPherson. Immersed in the competitive piping world from a young age and influenced by a strong family piping background, he developed a deep grounding in the tradition, which continues to shape his music.
A graduate of the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, David achieved a First Class Honours degree in Traditional Music, the only piper in his year to achieve the institution’s highest award.
David is a piper, performer, and educator from Glasgow working at the forefront of Scotland’s traditional music scene. Best known for his work with the band Assynt, he has toured extensively and released two acclaimed studio albums: Road to the North (2018) and Where From Here (2023).
David began learning at The National Piping Centre before studying with the legendary Donald MacPherson. Immersed in the competitive piping world from a young age and influenced by a strong family piping background, he developed a deep grounding in the tradition, which continues to shape his music.
A graduate of the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, David achieved a First Class Honours degree in Traditional Music, the only piper in his year to achieve the institution’s highest award.
Sophie Stringer
Youth & Communities Coordinator
Piping Teacher
Piping Teacher
Eilidh Rowe
Social Media Executive
As the Social Media Executive at the National Piping Centre, Eilidh helps to bring a fresh, digital-first perspective to Scotland’s rich musical heritage. With a first-class honours degree in Multimedia Journalism from Glasgow Caledonian University and a year and a half of freelance journalism under her belt, Eilidh knows exactly how to hunt down a great story.
Though still unable to squeeze a note out of a set of bagpipes, she excels at translating this historic art form into creative, snappy content for social media. Eilidh helps to connect the Centre’s vibrant online community directly to the heart of the action, ensuring Scotland’s extraordinary piping tradition resonates with lifelong enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike.
As the Social Media Executive at the National Piping Centre, Eilidh helps to bring a fresh, digital-first perspective to Scotland’s rich musical heritage. With a first-class honours degree in Multimedia Journalism from Glasgow Caledonian University and a year and a half of freelance journalism under her belt, Eilidh knows exactly how to hunt down a great story.
Though still unable to squeeze a note out of a set of bagpipes, she excels at translating this historic art form into creative, snappy content for social media. Eilidh helps to connect the Centre’s vibrant online community directly to the heart of the action, ensuring Scotland’s extraordinary piping tradition resonates with lifelong enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike.
Stephen McCusker
Admin Officer
H&S Representative
Stephen joined the National Piping Centre in May 2022. Stephen moved from the services sector where he worked for 15 years as an Operations Manager throughout various locations in Scotland. Previous to this role, Stephen completed 22 years military service in the British Army. A keen amateur solo piper, initially self-taught, Stephen currently plays in Grade 3 of The Competition League for Amateur Solo Pipers (CLASP)
Stephen is responsible for the day to day running of the lesson booking system as well as being the H&S Rep. Stephen also assists with all things relating to the administration of the CLASP competitions and events.
H&S Representative
Stephen joined the National Piping Centre in May 2022. Stephen moved from the services sector where he worked for 15 years as an Operations Manager throughout various locations in Scotland. Previous to this role, Stephen completed 22 years military service in the British Army. A keen amateur solo piper, initially self-taught, Stephen currently plays in Grade 3 of The Competition League for Amateur Solo Pipers (CLASP)
Stephen is responsible for the day to day running of the lesson booking system as well as being the H&S Rep. Stephen also assists with all things relating to the administration of the CLASP competitions and events.
Amy McIntyre
Finance Assistant
Amy joined the National Piping Centre in 2026 as a Finance Assistant after previously working in commercial audit. Amy graduated from The University of Glasgow with an Honours degree in Accounting and Finance. Amy is currently working through ACCA exams to gain chartership.
In her role, Amy assists the Finance Team in working through the general finances of the NPC.
Outside of work, Amy enjoys travelling to sunny climates, functional fitness, distance running and spending time with her family – especially Angus her beloved Labradoodle!
Amy joined the National Piping Centre in 2026 as a Finance Assistant after previously working in commercial audit. Amy graduated from The University of Glasgow with an Honours degree in Accounting and Finance. Amy is currently working through ACCA exams to gain chartership.
In her role, Amy assists the Finance Team in working through the general finances of the NPC.
Outside of work, Amy enjoys travelling to sunny climates, functional fitness, distance running and spending time with her family – especially Angus her beloved Labradoodle!
Dr Andrew Bova
Piping Teacher
Dr. Andrew Bova began his piping career in Northwest Ohio under the tutelage of Richard Winslow and Iain Macey. He would go on to receive tuition from Alasdair Gillies, Jimmy McIntosh MBE, Andrew Carlisle, and Roddy MacLeod MBE. An avid bandsman, he has twice won the Grade 1 World Pipe Band Championships, with Shotts in 2015 and his current band, Field Marshal Montgomery, in 2022.
Andrew is an alumnus of Carnegie Mellon University in his native Pittsburgh, where he completed a BFA and MM, both in piping performance. In 2021, he received a PhD from the University of St Andrews/The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland for research focusing on light music competition repertoire and the decision-making processes of competing pipers. Outside of music, Andrew is an enthusiastic home cook and enjoys experimenting with new techniques and ingredients in the kitchen.
Dr. Andrew Bova began his piping career in Northwest Ohio under the tutelage of Richard Winslow and Iain Macey. He would go on to receive tuition from Alasdair Gillies, Jimmy McIntosh MBE, Andrew Carlisle, and Roddy MacLeod MBE. An avid bandsman, he has twice won the Grade 1 World Pipe Band Championships, with Shotts in 2015 and his current band, Field Marshal Montgomery, in 2022.
Andrew is an alumnus of Carnegie Mellon University in his native Pittsburgh, where he completed a BFA and MM, both in piping performance. In 2021, he received a PhD from the University of St Andrews/The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland for research focusing on light music competition repertoire and the decision-making processes of competing pipers. Outside of music, Andrew is an enthusiastic home cook and enjoys experimenting with new techniques and ingredients in the kitchen.
Margaret Houlihan
Piping Teacher
CLASP Programme Lead
Margaret began learning pipes at age eight, taught first by her father Con Houlihan, later Stephen Power, Andrew Wright and Roddy MacLeod. In 1998 she moved to Scotland to study at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama graduating with Honours in Scottish Traditional Music. She became a PDQB examiner after gaining her Graduate Certificate with distinction in 2004.
A member of Cullen Pipe Band, she led them to World Championships 3B in 2007 and All Ireland 2013. She played with Shotts and Dykehead winning Grade 1 Worlds in 2000 and returning in 2023. Margaret has solo success at Argyllshire Gathering and Northern Meetings. She has taught at the National Piping Centre for 20 years and is a key facilitator of the CLASP alongside being mother of two boys.
CLASP Programme Lead
Margaret began learning pipes at age eight, taught first by her father Con Houlihan, later Stephen Power, Andrew Wright and Roddy MacLeod. In 1998 she moved to Scotland to study at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama graduating with Honours in Scottish Traditional Music. She became a PDQB examiner after gaining her Graduate Certificate with distinction in 2004.
A member of Cullen Pipe Band, she led them to World Championships 3B in 2007 and All Ireland 2013. She played with Shotts and Dykehead winning Grade 1 Worlds in 2000 and returning in 2023. Margaret has solo success at Argyllshire Gathering and Northern Meetings. She has taught at the National Piping Centre for 20 years and is a key facilitator of the CLASP alongside being mother of two boys.
Wilson Brown
Piping Teacher
Wilson has been an teacher at the NPC since 2013.
He is a former police officer with Strathclyde Police and won the Grade 1 World Championship on 5 occasions with the force pipe band. He has won the silver and gold medals and the A grade Strathspey and Reels at the Northern Meeting, Inverness.
He competed at the Glenfiddich Championships in 1996. He is an assessor for the PDQB examinations and co-ordinates and delivers the training for the PDQB assessors.
Wilson has been an teacher at the NPC since 2013.
He is a former police officer with Strathclyde Police and won the Grade 1 World Championship on 5 occasions with the force pipe band. He has won the silver and gold medals and the A grade Strathspey and Reels at the Northern Meeting, Inverness.
He competed at the Glenfiddich Championships in 1996. He is an assessor for the PDQB examinations and co-ordinates and delivers the training for the PDQB assessors.
Fionnlagh Mac A Phiocair
Piping Teacher
As a pioneer of the Scottish Smallpipe, Fionnlagh specialises in bellows pipes at the National Piping Centre, with a keen interest in delivering Gàidhlig repertoire through learning by ear, and singing. Fionnlagh has curated his own, unique style, which sees him perform regularly on a worldwide basis. He’s also a pipemaker!
Fionnlagh is also available as a highland pipe tutor, with a focus on both repertoire and styles you’d find in the Scottish Traditional Music scene today. If you’re interested in building confidence in sessions, finding your own voice in piping, or discovering new ways to get enjoyment out of your piping, Fionnlagh is more than happy to tailor 1-1 lessons to your specific needs!
As a pioneer of the Scottish Smallpipe, Fionnlagh specialises in bellows pipes at the National Piping Centre, with a keen interest in delivering Gàidhlig repertoire through learning by ear, and singing. Fionnlagh has curated his own, unique style, which sees him perform regularly on a worldwide basis. He’s also a pipemaker!
Fionnlagh is also available as a highland pipe tutor, with a focus on both repertoire and styles you’d find in the Scottish Traditional Music scene today. If you’re interested in building confidence in sessions, finding your own voice in piping, or discovering new ways to get enjoyment out of your piping, Fionnlagh is more than happy to tailor 1-1 lessons to your specific needs!
Danny Hutcheson
Evening Class Programme Lead
Piping Teacher
After graduating from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland with a 1st Class Honours Degree in Traditional Music – Piping, Danny joined the teaching team at the NPC and quickly expanded his role to the coordinator of the Evening Classes program. Away from the NPC Danny also works as a Bagpipe maker with Wallace Bagpipes and tours with several bands such as: Drums N’ Roses, Aceltica and previously the Red Hot Chilli Pipers.
Danny is an avid composer and was part of the Modern Piping magazine ran by Lincoln Hilton until its conclusion in 2024. His music has been played by pipe bands all over the world as well as prominent Scottish folk musicians. Danny previously played with Shotts & Dykehead Caledonia Pipe Band and was part of their 2017 pre-worlds concert ‘RISE’. As well as this Danny also played with the NYPBoS senior band and was a Pipe Major in their Development Band for several years. Outside of music, Danny is an avid home cook and enjoys trying new recipes.
Piping Teacher
After graduating from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland with a 1st Class Honours Degree in Traditional Music – Piping, Danny joined the teaching team at the NPC and quickly expanded his role to the coordinator of the Evening Classes program. Away from the NPC Danny also works as a Bagpipe maker with Wallace Bagpipes and tours with several bands such as: Drums N’ Roses, Aceltica and previously the Red Hot Chilli Pipers.
Danny is an avid composer and was part of the Modern Piping magazine ran by Lincoln Hilton until its conclusion in 2024. His music has been played by pipe bands all over the world as well as prominent Scottish folk musicians. Danny previously played with Shotts & Dykehead Caledonia Pipe Band and was part of their 2017 pre-worlds concert ‘RISE’. As well as this Danny also played with the NYPBoS senior band and was a Pipe Major in their Development Band for several years. Outside of music, Danny is an avid home cook and enjoys trying new recipes.
Ewan Henderson
Piping Teacher
Ewan was taught the pipes by his dad Philip and moved to Scotland when he was 18 to study Politics and then join Strathclyde Police. He enjoyed many successes with the Police band before becoming Pipe Major of Williamwood and then the Glasgow Skye Association, leading them to European and World Championships in grade 2.
He was instrumental in setting up the Police Scotland and Federation Pipe Band securing personnel support from the police and financial backing from the police federation, and was latterly the proud Pipe Major of the band.
Aside from playing and teaching he is busy with his young family and enjoys playing squash and travelling.
Ewan was taught the pipes by his dad Philip and moved to Scotland when he was 18 to study Politics and then join Strathclyde Police. He enjoyed many successes with the Police band before becoming Pipe Major of Williamwood and then the Glasgow Skye Association, leading them to European and World Championships in grade 2.
He was instrumental in setting up the Police Scotland and Federation Pipe Band securing personnel support from the police and financial backing from the police federation, and was latterly the proud Pipe Major of the band.
Aside from playing and teaching he is busy with his young family and enjoys playing squash and travelling.
Alistair Williams
Evening Class Teacher
Alistair has been playing in competitive pipe bands for 13 years, winning multiple major championships across different grades, most recently winning the Grade 2 World Championships with The Glasgow Skye Association Pipe Band.
He currently plays for Grade 1 Police Scotland & Federation Pipe Band. Alistair also takes part in the Glasgow traditional music scene, playing in venues across Scotland and Ireland, performing most recently at Piping Live! and Celtic Connections.
Alistair has been playing in competitive pipe bands for 13 years, winning multiple major championships across different grades, most recently winning the Grade 2 World Championships with The Glasgow Skye Association Pipe Band.
He currently plays for Grade 1 Police Scotland & Federation Pipe Band. Alistair also takes part in the Glasgow traditional music scene, playing in venues across Scotland and Ireland, performing most recently at Piping Live! and Celtic Connections.
Finlay Frame
Evening Class Teacher
Finlay began learning the bagpipes at the age of 11, he graduated from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland with a BMus in Piping before going on to complete a Master’s degree in Piping at the same institution.
Finlay has performed with the Glasgow and Strathclyde Officers’ Training Corps Pipes and Drums at tattoos and ceremonial events around the world. During his time with the Boghall and Bathgate Caledonia Pipe Band, he won the UK, British, and World Pipe Band Championships in Grade 1, and was also part of the winning International Quartet in 2023.
He is currently the instructor and Pipe Major of the Falkirk Schools Pipe Band. Finlay currently competes in B Grade solo piping and is a member of the Inveraray and District Pipe Band.
Finlay began learning the bagpipes at the age of 11, he graduated from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland with a BMus in Piping before going on to complete a Master’s degree in Piping at the same institution.
Finlay has performed with the Glasgow and Strathclyde Officers’ Training Corps Pipes and Drums at tattoos and ceremonial events around the world. During his time with the Boghall and Bathgate Caledonia Pipe Band, he won the UK, British, and World Pipe Band Championships in Grade 1, and was also part of the winning International Quartet in 2023.
He is currently the instructor and Pipe Major of the Falkirk Schools Pipe Band. Finlay currently competes in B Grade solo piping and is a member of the Inveraray and District Pipe Band.
Arren McWilliams
Evening Class Teacher
Arren McWilliams is a snare drummer and music educator from Donaghadee, County Down, Northern Ireland. His journey in pipe band drumming began at an Ulster Scots Agency Juvenile Pipe Band workshop, where he was introduced to the craft by Brendan Megoran, who became a formative influence on his development.
Arren joined the Pipes and Drums of the Police Service of Northern Ireland at just twelve years old and has been competing in Grade One ever since. After moving to Scotland in 2023, he joined Shotts and Dykehead Caledonia and is currently a third year student on the Traditional Music course at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, specialising in snare drum.
Alongside his performance career, Arren has built a growing portfolio of peripatetic teaching across Glasgow schools, and was selected for the National Youth Pipe Band of Scotland Trainee Tutor Programme in 2024–2025.
Arren McWilliams is a snare drummer and music educator from Donaghadee, County Down, Northern Ireland. His journey in pipe band drumming began at an Ulster Scots Agency Juvenile Pipe Band workshop, where he was introduced to the craft by Brendan Megoran, who became a formative influence on his development.
Arren joined the Pipes and Drums of the Police Service of Northern Ireland at just twelve years old and has been competing in Grade One ever since. After moving to Scotland in 2023, he joined Shotts and Dykehead Caledonia and is currently a third year student on the Traditional Music course at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, specialising in snare drum.
Alongside his performance career, Arren has built a growing portfolio of peripatetic teaching across Glasgow schools, and was selected for the National Youth Pipe Band of Scotland Trainee Tutor Programme in 2024–2025.
Ruairidh Buxton
Associate Tutor
Evening Class Teacher
Ruairidh Iain Buxton is a piper, flute and whistle player, and Gaelic speaker from the north-west coast of Scotland, and a semi-finalist in the BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician of the Year.
Immersed in Gaelic culture and traditional music from an early age, he went on to study at Sgoil Chiùil na Gàidhealtachd, University of the Highland and Islands in Benbecula, and the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. Now based in Glasgow, Ruairidh is active in the city’s vibrant trad scene and is a member of Ceol an Aire and Rhuvaal, as well as co-leading the Glè Mhath Ceilidh Band. He has performed across Scotland and internationally, with multiple bands and ensembles including with Greg Lawson’s Grit Orchestra.
Evening Class Teacher
Ruairidh Iain Buxton is a piper, flute and whistle player, and Gaelic speaker from the north-west coast of Scotland, and a semi-finalist in the BBC Radio Scotland Young Traditional Musician of the Year.
Immersed in Gaelic culture and traditional music from an early age, he went on to study at Sgoil Chiùil na Gàidhealtachd, University of the Highland and Islands in Benbecula, and the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. Now based in Glasgow, Ruairidh is active in the city’s vibrant trad scene and is a member of Ceol an Aire and Rhuvaal, as well as co-leading the Glè Mhath Ceilidh Band. He has performed across Scotland and internationally, with multiple bands and ensembles including with Greg Lawson’s Grit Orchestra.
Hamish Martindale
Associate Tutor
Hamish is a piper and whistle player originally from Nairn, Scotland. He began his piping journey at the age of seven, learning the practice chanter through the Fèis organisation. He later gained a music scholarship to Gordonstoun School, where he was tutored by Scott Oliphant.
In 2025, Hamish moved to Glasgow to study at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, where he is pursuing a degree in music with bagpipes as his principal instrument. He has performed with a number of leading youth and traditional music organisations, including the National Piping Centre’s National Youth Pipe Band of Scotland, Highland Young Musicians’ Snas, and the Fèis Rois Cèilidh Trail.
Outside of music, Hamish is a keen cross-country runner and is currently training for an ultramarathon.
Hamish is a piper and whistle player originally from Nairn, Scotland. He began his piping journey at the age of seven, learning the practice chanter through the Fèis organisation. He later gained a music scholarship to Gordonstoun School, where he was tutored by Scott Oliphant.
In 2025, Hamish moved to Glasgow to study at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, where he is pursuing a degree in music with bagpipes as his principal instrument. He has performed with a number of leading youth and traditional music organisations, including the National Piping Centre’s National Youth Pipe Band of Scotland, Highland Young Musicians’ Snas, and the Fèis Rois Cèilidh Trail.
Outside of music, Hamish is a keen cross-country runner and is currently training for an ultramarathon.
Lewis Maxwell
Associate Tutor
Lewis, from Alva, Clackmannanshire, began learning the pipes from his dad, Douglas, and has since received tuition from Callum Beaumont and now Willie McCallum. He is currently studying at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, where he has just completed the second year of his degree.
Lewis is a keen solo competitor who is currently competing in the CPA’s professional competitions. He has won at events including The Atholl Gathering, the Inveraray Highland Games, and the Highlands and Islands Music and Dance Festival.
Piping has also given Lewis many fantastic opportunities, including performing at the OVO Hydro and playing for King Charles.
Lewis, from Alva, Clackmannanshire, began learning the pipes from his dad, Douglas, and has since received tuition from Callum Beaumont and now Willie McCallum. He is currently studying at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, where he has just completed the second year of his degree.
Lewis is a keen solo competitor who is currently competing in the CPA’s professional competitions. He has won at events including The Atholl Gathering, the Inveraray Highland Games, and the Highlands and Islands Music and Dance Festival.
Piping has also given Lewis many fantastic opportunities, including performing at the OVO Hydro and playing for King Charles.
Kevin Beaton
Associate Tutor
Andrew Pattison
Associate Tutor
Bobby Allen
Associate Tutor
Thomas Fallon
Associate Tutor
Thomas is originally from Edinburgh and now resides in Glasgow where he’s just finished his first year studying BMus Traditional Music: Piping, at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. Thomas started learning pipes at the age of 9 being started off by his Dad and then taught by Steven Blake at Stewart’s Melville College.
He is now tutored by Cameron Drummond and Margaret Houlihan. Thomas is a keen solo competitor and competed successfully in the junior circuit and is now getting regular prizes in the CPA professional competitions. Thomas had a 5 year stint with NYPBS where he enjoyed playing concerts and taking part in many more opportunities. He is a member of Field Marshall Montgomery pipe band.
Thomas is originally from Edinburgh and now resides in Glasgow where he’s just finished his first year studying BMus Traditional Music: Piping, at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. Thomas started learning pipes at the age of 9 being started off by his Dad and then taught by Steven Blake at Stewart’s Melville College.
He is now tutored by Cameron Drummond and Margaret Houlihan. Thomas is a keen solo competitor and competed successfully in the junior circuit and is now getting regular prizes in the CPA professional competitions. Thomas had a 5 year stint with NYPBS where he enjoyed playing concerts and taking part in many more opportunities. He is a member of Field Marshall Montgomery pipe band.
Camron Macphail
Associate Tutor
Camron is a dedicated piper currently studying at the Royal Conservatoire, where they continue to develop their musicianship at an advanced level. They have a strong passion for the distinctive sound and tradition of the Great Highland Bagpipe, with a particular affinity for the 2/4 march. Camron performs in Grade 1 with Shotts and Dykehead Caledonia, where they are constantly refining their technique and ensemble skills at the highest standard.
Alongside performance work, Camron is committed to widening access to piping and supporting the next generation of players. Within NYPBS and The Piping Clubs, they have been focused on making high-quality piping education more accessible. Through both performance and advocacy, Camron aims to contribute meaningfully to the future and reach of the piping tradition.
Camron is a dedicated piper currently studying at the Royal Conservatoire, where they continue to develop their musicianship at an advanced level. They have a strong passion for the distinctive sound and tradition of the Great Highland Bagpipe, with a particular affinity for the 2/4 march. Camron performs in Grade 1 with Shotts and Dykehead Caledonia, where they are constantly refining their technique and ensemble skills at the highest standard.
Alongside performance work, Camron is committed to widening access to piping and supporting the next generation of players. Within NYPBS and The Piping Clubs, they have been focused on making high-quality piping education more accessible. Through both performance and advocacy, Camron aims to contribute meaningfully to the future and reach of the piping tradition.
Calum Craib
Associate Tutor
Calum grew up on Benbecula, an island in the outer Hebrides. Since he can remember he said he always wanted to be a piper, growing up from his beginnings he was taught by Norman Maclean who was a great mentor and friend over the course of 8 years.
Calum was a long standing member of the National youth pipe band in his teens. Performing in tattoos in Spain, Switzerland and Germany as a guest player later with other pipe bands. Calum’s achieved notable prizes on the solo circuit in his teens and is still a keen solo piper. Calum has recently completed his PDQB level 8 exam and currently receives instruction off Murray Henderson.
Calum grew up on Benbecula, an island in the outer Hebrides. Since he can remember he said he always wanted to be a piper, growing up from his beginnings he was taught by Norman Maclean who was a great mentor and friend over the course of 8 years.
Calum was a long standing member of the National youth pipe band in his teens. Performing in tattoos in Spain, Switzerland and Germany as a guest player later with other pipe bands. Calum’s achieved notable prizes on the solo circuit in his teens and is still a keen solo piper. Calum has recently completed his PDQB level 8 exam and currently receives instruction off Murray Henderson.
Lorne MacDougall
Associate Tutor
Originally from Carradale, Kintyre, but now based in Glasgow, Lorne MacDougall is known for his work across film, television and contemporary Scottish music. A 2025 Musician of the Year nominee at the BBC ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards, his playing has featured in productions including Disney Pixar’s Brave, DreamWorks’ How to Train Your Dragon franchise, Doctor Who, The Crown, Good Omens, Thunderbirds Are Go, Silent Witness, Call the Midwife and Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl.
He also made an onscreen appearance in The Crown as The Piper to the Sovereign and contributed to the upcoming computer game Squadron 42. His solo releases include Hello World, Bonfires of Arran, Sounds from the Sky and 8-Bit Bagpipes. Alongside his solo work, he performs with Tryst, has worked in various recording roles with The Red Hot Chilli Pipers and has toured internationally with the Tannahill Weavers.
Originally from Carradale, Kintyre, but now based in Glasgow, Lorne MacDougall is known for his work across film, television and contemporary Scottish music. A 2025 Musician of the Year nominee at the BBC ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards, his playing has featured in productions including Disney Pixar’s Brave, DreamWorks’ How to Train Your Dragon franchise, Doctor Who, The Crown, Good Omens, Thunderbirds Are Go, Silent Witness, Call the Midwife and Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl.
He also made an onscreen appearance in The Crown as The Piper to the Sovereign and contributed to the upcoming computer game Squadron 42. His solo releases include Hello World, Bonfires of Arran, Sounds from the Sky and 8-Bit Bagpipes. Alongside his solo work, he performs with Tryst, has worked in various recording roles with The Red Hot Chilli Pipers and has toured internationally with the Tannahill Weavers.
Jason Sumner
Associate Tutor
Jason Sumner is Head of Pipe Band at Robert Gordon’s College in Aberdeen. He joined the College in 2014 following a distinguished 27-year career in the British Army.
Jason began his military career with the Scots Guards at the age of 16 and rose through the ranks before transferring to the Royal Tank Regiment, where he served as Pipe Major. He was later appointed Senior Pipe Major of the British Army and completed operational tours in Northern Ireland, Belize and Iraq.
Since joining Robert Gordon’s College, Jason has overseen the growth of the Pipe Band from around a dozen members to more than 160 pupils receiving piping and drumming tuition.
Outside of teaching, Jason enjoys running, hillwalking and spending time outdoors with his two energetic spaniels.
Jason Sumner is Head of Pipe Band at Robert Gordon’s College in Aberdeen. He joined the College in 2014 following a distinguished 27-year career in the British Army.
Jason began his military career with the Scots Guards at the age of 16 and rose through the ranks before transferring to the Royal Tank Regiment, where he served as Pipe Major. He was later appointed Senior Pipe Major of the British Army and completed operational tours in Northern Ireland, Belize and Iraq.
Since joining Robert Gordon’s College, Jason has overseen the growth of the Pipe Band from around a dozen members to more than 160 pupils receiving piping and drumming tuition.
Outside of teaching, Jason enjoys running, hillwalking and spending time outdoors with his two energetic spaniels.
Annabel Charlton
Associate Tutor
Owain Woodman-Carr
Associate Tutor
Gus Sicard
Snare Drumming Teacher
Gus Sicard is a snare drummer with Inveraray & District Pipe Band.
He comes from Brittany where he started drumming 35 years ago and spent a decade serving as Bagad Cap Caval’s leading drummer. He helped the band reach the pinnacle of bagads before deciding to move to Scotland to join a top Grade 1 pipe band. He spent three seasons with ScottishPower PB then joined IDPB in 2010. Gus has won the Grade 1 Bagad Championships 5 times, and the Grade 1 World Pipe Band Championships 4 times.
On the solo scene, Gus has won the Breton championships and has placed in the top 10 at the World Solo Drumming Championships. He has taught many drummers of all levels over the years, either in one-to-one, drum corps, bands or workshops.
Gus Sicard is a snare drummer with Inveraray & District Pipe Band.
He comes from Brittany where he started drumming 35 years ago and spent a decade serving as Bagad Cap Caval’s leading drummer. He helped the band reach the pinnacle of bagads before deciding to move to Scotland to join a top Grade 1 pipe band. He spent three seasons with ScottishPower PB then joined IDPB in 2010. Gus has won the Grade 1 Bagad Championships 5 times, and the Grade 1 World Pipe Band Championships 4 times.
On the solo scene, Gus has won the Breton championships and has placed in the top 10 at the World Solo Drumming Championships. He has taught many drummers of all levels over the years, either in one-to-one, drum corps, bands or workshops.
Bronwen Davies
Tenor Drumming Teacher
Niall West
Drumming Teacher
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