The Scottish Piping Society of London Annual Competition

The London competition has grown over the years to become the largest one day piping competition in the world.  Competitors from all over the globe converge on the British capital city to compete for historic prizes including the prestigious Bratach Gorm (Blue Banner).

The SPSL squeezes many events into the day of competition ranging from the juvenile and amateurs to the elite pipers competing with over 100 players taking part in the various events.  There are several different types of music performed in the competitions,  piobaireachd - the classical music of bagpiping, March, Strathspey and Reel, Hornpipe and Jig and for the juveniles - slow air and jig.    Before the day of competition,  the players have been graded and so compete against players of a similar standard.  The grades for the open competitions are assigned by the CPA and range from C to A while the amateurs are graded by the CLASP with a range from three to one. With so many events going on simultaneously you have a choice as to what you listen to,  you are free to move from room to room but you will not be allowed to enter or leave while a competitor is playing.

The SPSL is very grateful to a wonderful team of stewards who work very hard to ensure that competitors are in the right place at the right time and assist those who have come to enjoy a day of piping.