The annual Pipe Bands Australia President’s Commendations have been announced, this year particularly recognising performance innovation and engagement during the COVID-18 crisis that has severely restricted pipe band activities across the nation.
Also recognised have been performance and training initiatives by bands to build skills and participations.
Recipients of the Commendations in 2020 are:
Ensembles:
The Derwent Scottish Pipe Band [Tasmania] – Recognising performance innovation and participation in the ANZAC Day Amazing Grace at 11 project that included a special video filmed in Hobart.
Haileybury Pipes and Drums – Recognising performance innovation in performing and producing a special video by all band members for the ANZAC Day Amazing Grace at 11 project.
Western Australia Police Pipe Band – Recognising performance innovation and producing a special video of VP75 – Lest We Forget.
Castle Hill RSL and Lithgow Pipe Bands – Recognising their introduction of Performance Enhancing Workshops for the pipe band community.
Horsham, Naracorte and Mt Gambier RSL Pipe Bands – Recognising regional co-operation between the bands for community and contest performance.
Individuals
Mark Saul – For composing VP75 – Lest We Forget for performance in Australia and overseas for the Pipe Bands Australia project commemorating the 75th anniversary of the end of World War Two.
Warwick Thistle – For virtually honouring its invitation to participate in Russia’s The March of the Immortal Regiment after the tour was cancelled due to COVID-19
