Isle of Islay, like many of the Hebridean Isles, has been blessed with Pipe music for the past two Millennia. For many years Islay Piping Society had dominated music on the Island. Although history shows the formation of a Pipe Band in the early 1950’s, it wasn’t until 1992 that Islanders decided to start the current Islay Pipe Band which was duly formed and subsequently registered with the Royal Pipe Band Association in Glasgow.
Many of the players at this time were beginners, both in Piping and drumming. It is testament to their drive and dedication that allowed the band to compete at its first Contest, Cowal Highland Games, a little over two years later.
1995 saw many of the band members move away to the mainland, for work and further Education reasons, both of which are, unfortunately, somewhat indicative of Island culture. Thankfully the band retained their dedication to the cause and as such continued, growing from strength to strength, attracting new recruits on the way.
The Band holds regular weekly practices in Ionad Chaluim Chille Ile, The Islay Columba Centre just outside Bowmore on a Tuesday evening at which time both drumming and piping beginners are taught by Pipe Major Nigel Morris and lead drummer Davie Hastie respectively.