Borreraig: An Experience Waiting to Happen

January 6, 2011 on 8:45 pm by Michael Grey | In News, Random Thoughts, Solo Piping, Stories | 2 Comments

After a while, everyone who takes up the Great Highland Bagpipe comes to know of the MacCrimmons.

The MacCrimmons: that fabled sixteenth century piping family of virtuoso geniuses. The MacCrimmons, of course, were [and to a lesser extent, I suppose are] the family that provided piping services to the expansive MacLeod clan.

There’s controversy around the MacCrimmon family. Their origins, their piping genius – even their existence – have occasionally come to be a topic of discussion, if not debate – mainly among pipery types (who else would be bothered?).

Anyway, I’m fessing up here: I’m one who believes they lived – well, we know they lived – but I believe many of them living as stratospherically brilliant musicians. I mean, just look at Euan and Calum for sweet evidence of my contention.

My intention today is just to say this: if you’re looking for a monumentally excellent moment, a cool life experience (this goes for anyone – regardless where you live), I suggest – no, I say – for an unforgettable moment in your time, well, head to Skye.

I respectfully suggest that like the devout followers of Islam and the Hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca, a trip to Skye and the site of the MacCrimmon school at Borreraig is a near-must for Great Highland Bagpipers.

It may not be the religious experience that is the Hajj. But it is special. I’ve ventured to Borreraig a number of times and have always come away a better piper for it.

Go to Borreraig. Bring your pipes. Play a tune.

You’ll not forget the experience – ever.

Now there’s a New Year’s resolution.

M.