Where amateur pipers shine
Join The CLASP NowCLASP Membership
The Competition League for Amateur Solo Pipers (CLASP) is the ultimate platform for adult amateur pipers to grow, perform and connect. Whether you’re new to competing or a seasoned soloist, CLASP offers supportive events, expert feedback, and a community of like-minded pipers from around the world.
We believe piping should be for everyone, and CLASP is a welcoming space where improvement and enjoyment go hand-in-hand. Join us and take your piping to the next level.
CLASP membership is open to anyone providing they are not actively competing in the professional ranks. CLASP membership gives you access to workshops, educational talks and discounts in The Bagpipe Show in addition to eligibility to participate in CLASP competitions.
CLASP competitions are split into the following grades, further information can be found on the CLASP website:
- Grade 1
- Grade 2
- Grade 3
- Grade 4/5 (Online only)
- Practice Chanter
CLASP Aims
- To provide a circuit of graded solo piping competitions for adult amateur pipers.
- To maintain a grading system.
- To raise the standard and profile of amateur piping.
- To work in harmony with existing competition organisers, the Competing Pipers Association and all other bodies involved in the promotion of Highland Piping.
CLASP FAQs
What is The CLASP?
The CLASP is a Competition League for Amateur Solo Pipers aged 18 years and above. CLASP is open to adult amateur pipers worldwide and offers both in-person and online competitions for its members.
Can I join CLASP at any time of the year?
Yes!
How much is CLASP Membership?
Membership is £50 for a full year, but reduces throughout a calendar year depending on when you join:
- 1st Jan – 31st March – £50
- 1st April – 30th June – £40
- 1st July – 30th Sept – £30
- 1st Oct – 31st Dec – £20
How do I start competing in CLASP?
The first thing you have to do is become a CLASP member via the CLASP website using the Join Now button on the home page. Once you become a member you will need to get a grading. There is information on the website about the grading process. Once you have been graded you can log-in via the members area of the website and enter any competitions that are on offer.
What does a CLASP membership include?
CLASP membership is about more than just competing, it’s about community, learning and developing your playing. Membership includes:
- Access to all online and in-person CLASP competitions
- Online and in-person CLASP league tables
- Grading and regrading to ensure you always compete at a fair level
- Detailed crit-sheets following each competition to help you learn and improve
- Access to 6 CLASP in conversation with talks
- Discounts on purchases from The Bagpipe Shop
- Access to the CLASP community groups and extra-curricular social activities
The CLASP Calendar 2025
1st In-person Competition
NPC McPhater St
Sat 1st March 2025
1st Live Online Competition
Teams
Fri-Sat 2nd-3rd May 2025
2nd In-person Competition
NPC McPhater St
Sat 21st June 2025
Luss Highland Games
CLASP Sanctioned
Sun 5th July 2025
Inveraray Highland Games
CLASP Sanctioned
Tue 22nd July 2025
CLASP At Piping Live!
Glasgow
Mon-Wed 11th-13th August 2025
Chatsworth Country Fair
Via RSPBA Entry
Sat 30th August 2025
Adult Practice Chanter Competition
TBD
September 2025
CLASP Workshop Weekend
Online & In-person
Fri-Sat 3rd-4th October 2025
2nd Live Online Competition
Teams
Sat 1st November 2025