Two Northern Irish pipe bands made history at the 2026 World Pipe Band Championships in Glasgow, with Bready Ulster Scots Pipe Band and Drumlough Pipe Band claiming top honors in their respective grades.
The 2026 World Pipe Band Championships in Glasgow witnessed an extraordinary display of talent and dedication from Northern Irish bands. Among the 221 bands from 16 countries, two bands from Northern Ireland stood out, claiming global titles and making their mark on the international stage.
The event, held at Glasgow Green, was a testament to the hard work and passion of pipe bands from around the world. The competition was fierce, with bands vying for top honors in various grades. For Northern Ireland, the day was particularly memorable as two of their bands emerged victorious.
The Rise of Bready Ulster Scots Pipe Band
Bready Ulster Scots Pipe Band from Co Tyrone made history by winning the Grade 4B title and securing the first place for best drum corps. This remarkable achievement came after the band had already been crowned Ulster champions earlier in the month for the second year running.
A spokesperson for Bready expressed the band’s disbelief and joy at their victory. “It’s a weekend we will never forget. We still can’t believe it. We are World champions!” The band’s success was attributed to their hard work, dedication, and the unwavering support they received. The victory was celebrated with an open practice at the Sollus Centre in Bready, where the public was invited to hear the new world champions play.
The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association’s Northern Ireland branch praised Bready’s achievement, highlighting their precision, discipline, and musicality. The band’s performance was described as “conquering” at Glasgow Green, with their leading drummer, Bobby Moore, aged just 15, playing a pivotal role in their success.
Drumlough Pipe Band’s Historic Win
Meanwhile, Drumlough Pipe Band from near Hillsborough in Co Down made their mark by winning the Grade 3B title. Under the leadership of pipe major Stephen Burrows, the band delivered a phenomenal performance, showcasing their musical strength and consistency.
The band’s victory was a result of their dedication, teamwork, and the unmistakable spirit of Co. Down. In a final of 12 bands from seven countries, Drumlough rose to the challenge, clinching the title and reflecting their commitment to every performance. The band’s achievement was celebrated by their community, with pipe major Stephen Burrows and leading drummer Gareth Ingram receiving special recognition.
The Global Stage
The top grade was won by Simon Fraser University from Canada, with Field Marshal Montgomery from Lisburn, who have won the title a record-breaking 13 times, relegated to runners-up for the 14th time. The event showcased the best of pipe band music, with bands from around the world competing for top honors.
The 2026 World Pipe Band Championships in Glasgow was a memorable event for Northern Ireland, with Bready and Drumlough pipe bands making history and bringing pride to their communities. Their achievements serve as an inspiration to aspiring musicians and a testament to the power of dedication and teamwork.
