2019 Recipient

The 2019 Shasta Piping Society Pipe Scholarship has been awarded to the Beetdigger Pipes & Drums of Brush, Colorado!

The Beetdigger Pipes & Drums are a pipe band from a high school in Brush, CO. Comprised of disadvantaged high school students

with an interest in the music and traditions of Scotland, this band is led by their music teacher, Marcas Shaver. Gaining support from

charitable organizations, this band has become an important part of the day for these kids.

SPS sent them four sets of renovated used bagpipes, some bags, hemp, chanters, and other gear to get them started on their musical

journey. We encourage others to contribute what they can to keep this dedicated group of youngsters moving toward their musical goals.

This photo is of one of the Beetdigger P&D students, Aaron, unpacking a renovated set of Gillanders bagpipes, sent to them by SPS.

The Shasta Piping Society also sponsored an amateur piobaireachd competition in San Diego, CA. A renovated set of Robertson drones with a Burley chanter was the prize pipe at the 2019 Tartan Day competition. Neil Clark was flown over from Scotland to judge this all-amateur competition where the soloists played the piobaireachd of their choice, and Neil and his wife Kathryn (Glenbervie Folk Duo) presented shows at the House of Scotland hall in Balboa Park.