Prestigious Silver Chanter Competition returns to Sabhal Mòr Ostaig

The Silver Chanter Piping Recital Competition returns to Sabhal Mòr Ostaig on Wednesday 05 August 2026.

One of the most significant events in the piping calendar, the competition will once again be staged in Talla Dhonaidh Chaimbeil on the evening of the Isle of Skye Highland Games, in partnership with The Piobaireachd Society and event sponsors, Torabhaig Single Malt Scotch Whisky.

First held in Skye in 1967, the prestigious Silver Chanter celebrates the music of the MacCrimmons, the hereditary pipers to the Chiefs of MacLeod, and remains one of the foremost ceòl mòr competitions.

The adjudicator for this year's competition will be Dr Jack Taylor and the six competitors are:

• Alastair Brown
• Sandy Cameron
• Steven Leask
• Stuart Liddell
• Derek Midgley
• Brodie Watson Massie

Each competitor has qualified through outstanding performances at Scotland's leading solo piping competitions and will perform one of the great MacCrimmon piobaireachd compositions before an expert audience and adjudicator.

Radio Skye will be broadcasting the event on Thursday 06 August 2026.

Dr Decker Forrest, Programme Leader for Sabhal Mòr Ostaig's BA (Hons) Gaelic and Traditional Music, said:

"Sabhal Mòr Ostaig is delighted to once again host the Silver Chanter, an event which has become an important annual fixture for both locals and an international piping scene alike. Perhaps more than any other piping competition, it brings the music, stories and traditions of the MacCrimmons to life by some of the worlds’ best pipers.

Doors: 7.00pm for a 7.30pm start

Tickets: Available on the door (not for purchase online): Adults: £10, Concession: £5, Under 16s: Free

The event is supported by Torabhaig Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Sabhal Mòr Ostaig and The Piobaireachd Society.