Maintaining the Rhythm for Local Pipe Band

Pupils of the Sgoil Lionacleit Pipe Band (SLPB) are benefiting from new bagpipes and drums, due to a Capital Grant provided by NHS Western Isles.

As well as enabling the band’s young musicians, which consist of Uist and Barra school pupils aged 10-17 years (Primary 6 up to secondary school), the opportunity to meet socially and participate in a mutually enjoyable activity, the tuition also supplements their learning towards national qualifications.

SLPB is led by a committee on an entirely voluntary and non-profit basis, with band practice taking place out with school hours.  The £24,000 funding allocation has enabled the committee to purchase seven sets of bagpipes, four sets of small pipes and drum sets.

The band is reported to be its strongest ever, attracting increasing numbers of pupils year by year. However, due to a high demand for tuition in pipes and drums, it has become a struggle to provide instruments to match the demand, with some pupils having to share. In addition, the pupils are also offered the opportunity to travel to mainland events, where they meet and compete with their peers throughout Scotland.

Debbie Bozkurt, NHS Western Isles Director of Finance & Procurement/IJB Chief Finance Officer, said, “NHS Western Isles was delighted to support the purchase of this crucial band equipment.  It is widely acknowledged there are many important health benefits associated with playing musical instruments, especially from an early age, improving both their physical and mental health.  Many people find playing music has a calming effect, and can help to reduce stress and build self-esteem and confidence.  Furthermore, being able to master certain technical aspects, such as concentration, manual dexterity and quick reflexes, contributes to improving an individual's memory and cognitive skills, keeping the brain healthy.”

William Hart, SLPB committee member, said “We are sincerely thankful to NHS Western Isles for their £24,000 donation towards our new instruments.  The bagpipes and drums that we possessed were aged and seriously deteriorated through wear and tear over the years, and, despite being heavily repaired, were becoming unserviceable.  In addition, this new equipment will provide a benefit to the wider community, as the band performs at many well-attended public functions and occasions.”

 With Uist and Barra well known for its fair share of pipers of national and international importance, NHS Western Isles hopes this new equipment will inspire success to our future young musicians.

Above: Group photo of Sgoil Lionacleit Pipe Band