After many years’ absence, the skirl of the bagpipes will once again be heard at West End Park in Timaru this weekend.
Five pipe bands from Oamaru to Ashburton will take part in a mini contest hosted by the South Canterbury Highland Pipe Band.
The bands will perform three musical events, a march, Strathspey and reel (MSR), medley and a 4/m March on the north field of West End Park.
South Canterbury Highland Pipe Band drum major Phil Dejoux said the last contest at West End Park was about 25 years ago.
‘‘This mini contest was pipe major William McArthur’s idea to get the bands together. The mini contest is the start to be able to keep it going every year.’’
This is the first performance since Covid-19 and Mr Dejoux said they were hit hard by Covid-19 as all contests were cancelled.
‘‘This is an opportunity for local bands to get together and to be able to do what they are enjoy doing which is performing for the public.’’
The contest will be assessed by judges visiting from out of town.
Mr Dejoux hoped all of the bands would have an enjoyable day.
‘‘It feels good to get back out into the public and perform again. The pipes have been gathering mould just sitting in the cupboard.’’
The concert will be held on Saturday from 11am to 1.30pm and members of the public are welcome to come along to listen.
