Pipes & Drums

The Black Watch Pipes and Drums are an essential part of the Battalion. They are the repository for much of the history and tradition of The Black Watch. They are often the public face of the Battalion when they perform at shows and tattoos. They play at all the important Battalion events from parades to dinner nights and ceilidhs. And they fight alongside their fellow Black Watch soldiers when it comes to Operational Tours.

The Black Watch Pipes and Drums currently consists of about 14 Pipers, 12 Drummers and 6 Highland Dancers. The Band is world famous and in the last two years members of the band have performed in Hong Kong, Germany, France, Malta and the United States.

Most recently between January and March 2006 The Pipes and Drums toured North America, playing in sixty four shows over seventy two days. This tour not only reinforced the currency of The Black Watch with our North American cousins, but also gave members of the Band an awesome opportunity to see the United States.

The Pipes and Drums fought as a rifle platoon in Iraq. Their service was of the highest standard and with the award of two Queen’s Gallantry Medals, a Mention in Dispatches and a Joint Commander’s Commendation they are the most decorated platoon in the Battalion.

Pipe Major Taylor

Privates McGregor and Anderson