Plans for first '˜Muchty pipe band launched

Garry Grant (25), a Lance Corporal with the 1st Battalion Scots Guards, has organised a meeting next Tuesday for those interested in joining.

“When I was a young lad growing up in my home town, the nearest pipe band was in Cupar, and they didn’t do much competing,” he said.

“So it’s always been a dream of mines to start up a band in Auchtermuchty.

“Now, since the ‘Muchty festival folded, I thought it would be a good opportunity for young people to come along, learn the pipes and drums, and see what it’s like to compete and travel.”

Garry has already fulfilled another life-long dream – taking part in the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, something he will be repeating again this summer.

“A lot of work goes into it rehearsals-wise, so it can be hard going, but it’s really good to be a part of,” he said.

Garry, who is fully qualified to teach the pipes, has worked hard to get everything in place for the band ahead of next week’s meeting, and one thing is already certain: the name.

He has been given the permission of son of music legend Sir Jimmy Shand to name the band The Jimmy Shand Memorial Pipe Band, something which means a lot to him.

“When I was a young boy, I played the pipes on stage at the ‘Muchty Festival. Sir Jimmy had just come off, and I was a nervous wreck.

“After I finished, I came off stage and he shook my hand and said ‘You did well boy’. That meant a lot. He’s a total inspriration.”

Garry said the band will focus on some of Sir Jimmy’s music.

He is hoping to organise a memorial march every year up to the memorial statue to “keep his memory and music alive”.

If you are interested in joining the band, the meeting takes place at the Scout Hall at 6.30pm on Tuesday, July 26.