by Megan Canning | Aug 30, 2012
Pipe Major Ryan Canning
The House of Edgar Shotts & Dykehead Pipe Band is delighted to announce that Ryan Canning has been appointed as Pipe Major with effect from 30 August, 2012.
Ryan joins the band from Field Marshal Montgomery Pipe Band, where the band completed the 2012 season as World Pipe Band Champions and Champion of Champions.
Speaking about his appointment, Ryan said “I’m really excited about the challenge of becoming Pipe Major of The House of Edgar Shotts & Dykehead Pipe Band. There is no doubt that the Shotts name is one of the biggest in the pipe band world and has been for a century, and I feel privileged to be continuing the band’s legacy. I’ve spent literally half my life in the Field Marshal Montgomery Pipe Band under Pipe Major Richard Parkes, and to my mind, there has been no better place or person to learn from. My philosophy and way of working would be in line with what I’ve come to believe in FMM: in a strong focus on discipline, technique, and continually striving to produce a quality pipe sound, and above all, quality music. I know the challenge will be great, but I’m really excited to be working with someone as experienced and talented as Jim Kilpatrick and to have such a strong and consistent drum corps supporting the band. I know the hard work that lies ahead, but I can’t wait to get started. This will be a completely fresh start for Shotts & Dykehead, and anyone looking to join the band is more than welcome to get in contact with me. It’s going to be an exciting period ahead.”
The band’s leading drummer Drum Major Jim Kilpatrick MBE said “I am excited and honoured on so many levels with the appointment of Ryan Canning as the new Shotts Pipe Major. I have always had the greatest respect for Ryan’s talent, as a player and a composer, and he brings with him, a lifetime of experience at the highest level to the band. Along with this, Ryan will bring a new and professional style of music and leadership to the Shotts band. This is a fresh challenge for both of us and I couldn’t ask for a better person to take on the role as Pipe Major.”
Anyone interested in joining the band is welcome to make contact by e-mail or by approaching any members of the band.