Burns Night Fundraiser

The pipes and drums are deeply woven into the Scottish fabric and we are proud that we are one of a small number of primary schools who maintain a strong Pipe Band.

On Saturday, parents and visitors gathered at Ardvreck to not only celebrate the life of Robert Burns but also to raise money to resource the Pipe Band for future generations. The guests were treated to a collation of musical items. The Pipe Band played the guests into dinner and Torquil Le Roy-Lewis, the Ardvreck Pipe Major piped in the Haggis. Sir James McGrigor, Bt and MSP for Argyll and the Highlands gave an eloquent Toast to the Lassies whilst Ardvreck’s Director of Music, Mrs Joan Taylor replied on behalf of the lassies. Both speeches were full of political connotations and we learnt a great deal about the political support that Sir James has given to a range of causes that have been taken up by the fairer sex! The Senior Girls (11-13 year olds) were on hand to provide excellent waitressing skills whilst holding stimulating conversations with our guests.

The final part of the evening featured a promise auction and Mr Charlie Youlten of Glenalmond College conducted the bidding with great authority and flair. Promises had been generously donated by parents and friends of the school. All funds raised will go towards uniform and equipment for Ardvreck’s Pipe Band. This academic year the pipers and drummers have been in popular demand; several performed at the Old Course Hotel for the formal Institute of Directors Dinners whilst in October the entire band helped welcome Griff Rhys Jones to Crieff.

Saturday evening was a splendid occasion and it was a great honour to welcome families and guests from the many shires of Scotland to celebrate the life of Burns whilst supporting the future achievements of our young pipers and drummers. We are sure that the great bard would be proud of the Pipe Band and their contribution to the Scottish way of life.