The Oban Times, 8 May, 1920
[The Piobaireachd Society’s Music]
1 May, 1920
Sir,–Your correspondent “Loch Sloy” is rather premature in his advice. The tunes chosen by the Piobaireachd Society for young pipers is a mere side issue. When it comes to the point, I can learn them as well as “Loch Sloy” or any other piper.
But I still maintain that pipers of from 15 to 18 years of age should be allowed to choose their own tunes. If they were, piobaireachd would flourish. We should be broad-minded, and do all in our power as pupil and teacher, so that ancient piobaireachd should be the first word in piping. There is no consideration given to young pipers in competition. As far as I can see, five or six men are glorified in competition, whose names we are tired hearing of.
My grievance is that I have bought the five books published by the Piobaireachd Society, and in them I cannot find “The King’s Taxes.” I can assure your correspondent “Loch Sloy” that I am under a good “master,” and I will do him justice.–I am, etc.,
Young Piper
