House of Scotland Pipe Band in Balboa Park.

House of Scotland Pipe Band performs at Spreckels Organ Pavilion.
House of Scotland Pipe Band performs at Spreckels Organ Pavilion.

Today’s free Sunday organ concert at Balboa Park’s Spreckels Organ Pavilion featured the amazing House of Scotland Pipe Band! The House of Scotland makes its home in the International Cottages just steps away from the pavilion.

I’ve always loved bagpipe music. It’s even better, if that’s possible, when accompanied by Dr. Carol Williams, San Diego’s famous Civic Organist, on the majestic Spreckels Organ. The large-lunged instruments combine their resonance, and with the addition of a booming drum, the melodies that are produced really stir the blood. I wish the concert had gone on all afternoon!

Songs included Highland Cathedral, Flower of Scotland, Blue Bells, Amazing Grace, Scotland the Brave, and The Ballad of Glencoe.

Raising and twirling the baton in time with great bagpipe music.
Raising and twirling the baton in time with great bagpipe music.
Dr. Carol Williams accompanies bagpipes with Spreckels Organ.
Dr. Carol Williams accompanies bagpipes on the Spreckels Organ.
The big booming drum of the House of Scotland!
The big booming drum of the House of Scotland!
Balboa Park visitors mingle with musicians after the stirring concert.
Balboa Park visitors mingle with musicians after the stirring concert.

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Richard Schulte

Downtown San Diego has been my home for many years. My online activities reflect my love for writing, blogging, walking and photography.

3 thoughts on “House of Scotland Pipe Band in Balboa Park.”

  2. I was Drum Major, House of Scotland Pipe Band, 1980-83 with Pipe Major James Hamilton, later succeed by Pipe Major Campbell Naismith. Band was attired in Black Watch style: Pipers in Royal Stewart tartan on black tunics, drummers (including myself) in Campbell of Cawdor (similar to Black Watch except for red stripe) tartan on red tunics with white belts. Quite a sight. Great band. First ever southern California D/M to hold unprecedented distinction of winning 1980 San Diego Scottish Highland Games AND Costa Mesa Scottish Games, first time out, same year. Nice to see my old group still kickin! Maybe I should dust of the old mace and get back in the game (lol).

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