STAFF
The Smiths Falls Gordon Pipe Band placed first in the Grade 5 division at the Georgetown Highland Games on June 14.
The event, marking its 50th anniversary, featured 29 pipe bands and a record number of solo entries. Held at the Georgetown Fairgrounds, competitions included piping, drumming, Highland dancing, and traditional athletic events.
The Smiths Falls Gordon Pipe Band, established in 1996 and wearing the Ancient Gordon tartan, is a volunteer-run non-profit. The group also hosts its own annual event, Highland on the Rideau, typically held in late June at Lower Reach Park in Smiths Falls.
Top band results:
- Grade 1: 78th Fraser Highlanders
- Grade 2: City of Dunedin
- Grade 3: Glengarry
- Grade 4: Hamilton Police
- Grade 5: Smiths Falls Gordon Pipe Band
Individual awards went to Sean McKeown (Professional Piper), Kyle Wardell (Professional Snare Drummer), Jean-Sebastian Gamache (Amateur Piper), and Cameron MacDonald (Amateur Drummer).
Event operations were led by Sharon Duthart, with field preparation handled by Rob McGregor and Ed Johnson.
What do pipe band grades mean?
Pipe bands are grouped into grades to ensure fair competition based on skill level. Grades range from entry-level to professional:
- Grade 1: Top-tier bands, often international competitors. Highly complex music.
- Grade 2: Advanced amateur or semi-professional level. Strong competition.
- Grade 3: Intermediate bands. Good musical ability with simpler arrangements.
- Grade 4: Developing bands. Commonly includes youth or smaller community groups.
- Grade 5: Introductory level. New bands or those rebuilding with beginner players.
Bands may be regraded annually based on competition results.
