The Heritage & Journey of Glencorse Pipe Band

A Legacy Born of Tradition

Founded in February 1973 by Tom Hyde and Bill Kenyon at Glencorse, near Penicuik, our band carries a history deeply entwined with Scottish military tradition. We take immense pride in our uniform, the ‘Cameron of Erracht’ tartan.

This historic sett dates back to the late 17th century and was famously worn by the 79th Regiment of Foot (The Cameron Highlanders). In a gesture of historical kinship, the band’s first kilts were donated by the Cameron Highlanders themselves, as we held our very first practices within their barracks. Today, we carry that legacy forward, presenting a striking and authentic image of Scottish heritage wherever we perform.

Performers to Royalty and Stars

The Glencorse Pipe Band has had the distinct honour of performing for H.M. Queen Elizabeth II on several occasions at the world-renowned Braemar Highland Games. Our reputation for excellence has also made us a preferred choice for the screen and stage:

Television & Film: We have recently featured alongside Sam Heughan and Graham McTavish in the hit series Men in Kilts, appeared on The Real Housewives of Cheshire, and participated in upcoming productions for German television.
Live Stage: Our portfolio includes collaborations with the late Bill McCue at the Kings Theatre, performing with the 45-strong Welsh Cor Yr Hen Blwyf Male Voice Choir, and appearing in the high-energy finale of Lee Evans’ Live in Scotland.
Cultural Workshops: We are proud to have shared our craft through live workshops during the prestigious Edinburgh International Festival.

Masters of the 'Beating Retreat'

We are specialists in the "Beating Retreat"—a spectacular display of military music and discipline. We have performed this stirring ceremony at Scotland’s most iconic venues, including Edinburgh Castle, Hopetoun House, Dalmeny House, and Dundas Castle, as well as the world-famous Turnberry Hotel.

A Global Ambassador

While our roots are in Midlothian, our music is truly international. From the vibrant streets of North Africa to the grand squares of Europe, we have brought the sound of the pipes to:

The International Colourful Festival & Grand Carnival (Yasmine Hammamet, Tunisia)
Festival Interceltique de Lorient (France)
Major festivals across Germany, Spain, Portugal, and Sweden.

Five Decades of Musical Excellence

Though our primary focus today is on high-profile performances and international displays, our musical foundation is built on a successful competitive history. Prior to 2012, the band was a formidable force on the competition circuit, securing over 40 prizes in Grade 4 (including 2nd at the Scottish Championships and 5th at the World Championships) and over 25 prizes in Grade 3.

In 2023, we proudly celebrated our 50th Anniversary. To mark this golden milestone, Pipe Major Tam Crawford composed the original 6/8 march, 'Glencorse 50th', a companion piece to the 'Glencorse 30th Year' composed by PM William Kenyon two decades prior.