More than a course. A piping experience
Book A Gathering Place NowNPC Gatherings
Join us for the National Piping Centre’s Gatherings; our 5 day course where music, learning, laughter and connection are at the heart of the experience.
Enjoy inspiring daily tuition from renowned pipers, explore traditional music through informal recitals, sessions and workshops, and experience the power of group music making! Open to pipers who are advanced beginner upwards, this is a truly inclusive, social and immersive week where pipers come together to learn and live the music we love.
The Gathering 2026
2-6 November 2026 | The National Piping Centre, Glasgow
This fantastic five-day immersive experience is designed to be as fun as it is educational, offering a deep dive into piping traditions under the guidance of our world-class instructors. Taking place in the heart of Glasgow, The Gathering brings together pipers from all backgrounds for a week of intensive learning and musical growth.
Across the five days, participants will engage in a rich and varied programme featuring masterclass workshops, group sessions and performance training. Whether you are looking to refine your technique, explore new repertoire, or gain confidence performing with others, the timetable provides a balanced mix of expert tuition and dedicated practice time.
In addition to the regular Gathering program, this year, we are very excited to also offer pipers a structured pathway focused on amateur solo piping. This gives students greater choice over the topics they wish to explore, allowing them to select classes that are most relevant to their individual goals and interests.
And, of course, it’s not all hard work! The programme also includes opportunities to socialise, meet fellow pipers and enjoy some time together after the day’s classes.
What to expect:
- Intensive group and individual coaching from top-tier instructors.
- Specialized sessions focusing on advanced techniques and musicality.
- Experience the power of the pipes by learning and performing as a collective pipe corps.
- Practical workshops covering maintenance, tuning and instrument setup.
The week combines high-level musical development with a welcoming, community-focused atmosphere. It includes evening social events, informal music-making and some of the much-loved extras NPC Gatherings are known for, such as sessions, fun group activities and live performances.
The Gathering is recommended for adult players aged 18+ at advanced beginner level and above, making it ideal for solo pipers, pipe band players, returning learners and anyone looking for fresh inspiration in their music. The event takes place at the National Piping Centre’s McPhater Street venue in Glasgow.
What is a Gathering?
Gatherings are the perfect blend of world class tuition and social activities. While no two gatherings are exactly the same here is a list of activities you could expect to see:
- Whole group teaching
- Specialist skills breakout sessions
- Pub quizzes
- Tryst sessions
- Whisky tastings
- Entertainment, concerts & performances
- NPC merch goodie bags
2026 Gathering Dates
NPC Gathering FAQs
Where do the Gatherings take place?
Gatherings take place at the NPC’s McPhater Street venue.
Are the Gatherings suitable for complete beginners?
The Gatherings are open to people aged 18+, however we would recommend them for advanced beginners and up so that you can make the most of the different sessions.
Who teaches on the Gatherings?
The teaching roster changes every time to give each Gathering a unique feel and ensure returning participants get a different experience. We use a blend of the NPC’s excellent teaching staff and carefully selected guest teachers ranging from Grade 1 PM’s to Glenfiddich winners and Folk Music’s biggest names.
How many Gatherings are there?
There are two Gatherings per year. One in the Spring to get you set for the season and another in the Autumn, after the Glenfiddich, as an end of season get-together!
Quotes From Our Participants
