The basis behind the Aberdeenshire Youth Pipes & Drums is the learning and sharing of knowledge in a group format . We encourage young pipers and drummers from all over the North East to come together to experience expert tuition and to meet and exchange skills with their peers.

The Youth ensemble is designed to offer all players the opportunity to perform a style of music they might not have tried before as well as increase the foundation of our great Pipe and Drum music - the traditional methods of building up technique and musicality. In this, we intend to run a series of training workshops throughout 2011 with the emphasis heavily on musical development.

All our events are designed to compliment and enhance other musical activities. Training and performance dates will usually be within school term calendar and the Youth Band is non-competing, instead concentrating on stage craft with performance based presentation.

Finally, what has made the AYPD training network so successful in creation is bringing young players together from all parts of the North East. Solo, pipe band and new pipers alike joining to share their enjoyment, talent and grow as individuals through the inspiring and uplifting qualities of our rich pipe and drum music tradition.

AYPD Artistic Director

Robert Aitken