0:00:04 > 0:00:08Hello and welcome to one of the biggest musical events of the year.
0:00:08 > 0:00:11We've got top-class performances and thousands of musicians.
0:00:11 > 0:00:14It can only be The World Pipe Band Championships.
0:00:33 > 0:00:35Hello and welcome to Glasgow Green
0:00:35 > 0:00:39for the World Pipe Band Championships 2011.
0:00:39 > 0:00:43Once again, bands from all over the world have come to the city
0:00:43 > 0:00:45to find out who is the best of the best.
0:00:46 > 0:00:51For the musicians here today, this is the time when months of rehearsal are put to the test.
0:00:51 > 0:00:55Like top sportsmen, there are years of dedication needed to produce
0:00:55 > 0:00:57the perfect performance. And coming up,
0:00:57 > 0:01:00we'll be showing you the very best from this special event.
0:01:00 > 0:01:04We'll also have a flavour of the sort of pressure the players are under.
0:01:04 > 0:01:06And at the end of the programme,
0:01:06 > 0:01:11we'll be finding out who is crowned World Champions 2011.
0:01:12 > 0:01:18Coming up, some of the best performances from this year's top-level competition.
0:01:21 > 0:01:24We hear of one band's incredible effort to make it
0:01:24 > 0:01:29- to this year's championship. - Coming to the World Championships this year has been hugely important.
0:01:29 > 0:01:32It's provided us with a focus
0:01:32 > 0:01:34to get on with life.
0:01:34 > 0:01:36CHEERING
0:01:36 > 0:01:41We find out from last year's winners what it means to be the best in the world.
0:01:41 > 0:01:45To hear St Laurence O'Toole being called out as Grade One World Champions
0:01:45 > 0:01:48was the most amazing experience, the most amazing feeling.
0:01:49 > 0:01:54And at the end of the show, we'll be finding out who is this year's world champion.
0:01:59 > 0:02:03Before we get into the music, a bit of explanation as to what's happening.
0:02:03 > 0:02:08There are hundreds of bands competing here today in different classes and different age groups.
0:02:08 > 0:02:13But the top league competition takes place in the Grade One Arena.
0:02:13 > 0:02:17There are 14 bands in the final, and all have the chance of becoming
0:02:17 > 0:02:21World Champions and going home with this magnificent trophy.
0:02:21 > 0:02:25Let's speak now to our commentator today, player and sometime judge,
0:02:25 > 0:02:27- Bob Worrall. Good to see you. - Good to be back.
0:02:27 > 0:02:30Let's discuss how the competition is arranged.
0:02:30 > 0:02:34First round, March, Strathspeys and Reels. And then the medley?
0:02:34 > 0:02:39It's a March, Strathspey and Reel first. It's very prescribed, but they can select the tunes they wish.
0:02:39 > 0:02:43We've seen much more diversity in the marches than last year, which delights me.
0:02:43 > 0:02:48There will be one result at the end. In turn, they will all come back and play their medley,
0:02:48 > 0:02:50which is much more free form, very creative.
0:02:50 > 0:02:54I think we'll hear some great medleys. Two results are blended together,
0:02:54 > 0:02:58- one champion for that trophy. - That takes us to an important ingredient, the weather.
0:02:58 > 0:03:02August in Glasgow, we've had four seasons so far. How does that affect the playing?
0:03:02 > 0:03:06The weather is very changeable today. We get a little bit of rain, a little bit of sun.
0:03:06 > 0:03:10With the bagpipe in particular, to maintain that tone is very difficult
0:03:10 > 0:03:14to maintain chanter stability, to keep the drones in tune.
0:03:14 > 0:03:18It can be sunny, then it rains and the drones go out of tune.
0:03:18 > 0:03:22Some pipe majors are masters at managing changeable conditions,
0:03:22 > 0:03:25without mentioning any names. Some might struggle a little more.
0:03:25 > 0:03:28I know for the pipe majors from our side of the Atlantic,
0:03:28 > 0:03:30it's much more difficult for them.
0:03:30 > 0:03:35- Who should we be looking out for this year?- The reigning champions, St Laurence O'Toole,
0:03:35 > 0:03:38second in the first three championships. Simon Fraser University
0:03:38 > 0:03:41won it the year before last, the year before that.
0:03:41 > 0:03:44They'd love to get it back again. Of course, Field Marshal Montgomery.
0:03:44 > 0:03:46They won the first three championships.
0:03:46 > 0:03:50- Richard Parkes would love to have this trophy back.- All to play for.
0:03:50 > 0:03:53And, boy, can they play! Let's get some music now.
0:03:53 > 0:03:57Let's go to the Grade One Arena for the March, Strathspey and Reel.
0:03:57 > 0:04:01'First up, reigning champions St Laurence O'Toole.'
0:04:16 > 0:04:19That was an absolutely superb introduction.
0:04:31 > 0:04:34Strong introductory tone.
0:04:34 > 0:04:35Nicely balanced.
0:04:35 > 0:04:40And it's the dynamics range coming off these snares and the phrase definition I really enjoy.
0:04:49 > 0:04:52The pipes held well, despite the bad conditions.
0:04:54 > 0:04:58Yeah, I wouldn't say it was our greatest run ever...
0:04:59 > 0:05:04..but it's well up there in terms of what we do as a band.
0:05:19 > 0:05:21This is a very musical march right now.
0:05:21 > 0:05:25Very nicely defined phrases, good lift on the offbeat accents.
0:05:52 > 0:05:56First, I'm hoping for a couple of good runs. I think we got one there.
0:05:56 > 0:06:00I'm hoping for another good one. Possibly push up a couple of places.
0:06:00 > 0:06:04That's obviously the objective, to get higher up the prize list than you did the previous year.
0:06:30 > 0:06:34Strathspey's coming across just a bit on the careful side.
0:06:36 > 0:06:40It was good today. A wee bit windy. But I thought it was good in general.
0:06:40 > 0:06:43Speak to the guys when you get back and see what they think.
0:07:18 > 0:07:22We're getting close to the conclusion of this performance. It has been stellar.
0:07:29 > 0:07:31CHEERING AND APPLAUSE
0:07:31 > 0:07:35And a bit of a half-smile from Richard Parkes.
0:07:36 > 0:07:39Felt really good. Quite happy with the performance.
0:07:39 > 0:07:42Obviously you're always very nervous, going in the first time.
0:07:42 > 0:07:44Everything seemed to go well.
0:07:44 > 0:07:48I'll speak to the other guys, but everybody seems to be quite happy with that.
0:07:49 > 0:07:52We'll have more from the March, Strathspey and Reel in a minute.
0:07:52 > 0:07:56But first, the story of one particular band and their massive effort to get here.
0:07:56 > 0:08:00Canterbury Caledonian Society Pipe Band come from New Zealand.
0:08:00 > 0:08:04But their story isn't so much to do with how far they've come to get here,
0:08:04 > 0:08:08it's their home town, Christchurch, which you may remember
0:08:08 > 0:08:11was devastated by an earthquake earlier this year.
0:08:11 > 0:08:15For them, this year's championship is more than just a competition.
0:08:18 > 0:08:232010 was the first year that New Zealanders The Canterbury Caledonian Society Pipe Band
0:08:23 > 0:08:26had competed in the World Pipe Band Championships.
0:08:26 > 0:08:29They vowed last year that they'd be back.
0:08:29 > 0:08:33Little did they know what was about to happen to their beloved city.
0:08:37 > 0:08:40New Zealand has declared a national state of emergency following
0:08:40 > 0:08:44the devastating earthquake which struck Christchurch yesterday.
0:08:44 > 0:08:46The earthquake hit Christchurch,
0:08:46 > 0:08:50causing massive damage and loss of life across the city.
0:08:50 > 0:08:52The community was devastated.
0:08:52 > 0:08:56It had a resounding effect on everyone in the band.
0:08:56 > 0:09:00February 22nd, we had a major earthquake.
0:09:00 > 0:09:02Very fortunate that I wasn't in any buildings.
0:09:02 > 0:09:05Certainly, the whole experience of just trying to stay on your feet...
0:09:07 > 0:09:10...was almost like sort of...
0:09:10 > 0:09:13riding an out of control surfboard or something like that.
0:09:14 > 0:09:17It lasted about 40 seconds, I think.
0:09:17 > 0:09:19But it became quite obvious straight after
0:09:19 > 0:09:23the shake that there'd been pretty substantial damage.
0:09:23 > 0:09:26Although the band didn't lose anyone directly,
0:09:26 > 0:09:30the devastation of the earthquake struck at their very heart -
0:09:30 > 0:09:33their headquarters for 88 years, Caledonian Hall.
0:09:33 > 0:09:36Unfortunately, through the February earthquake,
0:09:36 > 0:09:40that actual hall has now been basically destroyed.
0:09:40 > 0:09:44So, there's a lot of memories, a lot of cultural significance for the band
0:09:44 > 0:09:50and the Scottish community of Christchurch within it. So, for us to lose that was a very terrible shame.
0:09:50 > 0:09:53There was the property damage. But also psychologically,
0:09:53 > 0:09:56I've noticed a big effect upon...
0:09:56 > 0:09:58people in Christchurch generally.
0:10:01 > 0:10:04Those that have been directly affected by the earthquake,
0:10:04 > 0:10:06something like 40,000 homes have been lost.
0:10:06 > 0:10:091,000 commercial buildings.
0:10:09 > 0:10:11With their home destroyed,
0:10:11 > 0:10:16with the loss of pipes, drums, band memorabilia and a city in ruins,
0:10:16 > 0:10:19the band had to decide whether they'd be able to return
0:10:19 > 0:10:22to the world championships this year.
0:10:22 > 0:10:25In terms of the band, it was a bit of a line in the sand for us,
0:10:25 > 0:10:28trying to decide whether we move along
0:10:28 > 0:10:31and keep going with our plans to come to Scotland
0:10:31 > 0:10:35this year. Certainly, there was a strong determination
0:10:35 > 0:10:39by all the individuals that life had to move on.
0:10:39 > 0:10:43And the trip to Glasgow provided us with a very definite
0:10:43 > 0:10:46target to move on.
0:10:51 > 0:10:55So, six months after their city was in ruins, here they are
0:10:55 > 0:10:59playing in the qualifying round of the World Championships 2011.
0:11:11 > 0:11:14An emotional moment for the band and all their friends, families
0:11:14 > 0:11:18and supporters in Glasgow - and at home in Christchurch.
0:11:18 > 0:11:21I'm very, very happy with the performance this morning.
0:11:21 > 0:11:24Conditions were good, in the end.
0:11:24 > 0:11:28The weather forecast wasn't so good a couple of days ago,
0:11:28 > 0:11:30but ideal conditions this morning. Very happy.
0:11:32 > 0:11:34Sadly, their performance wasn't enough
0:11:34 > 0:11:37to get them into the later stages of the competition.
0:11:37 > 0:11:42Perhaps just getting here was a world-class achievement in itself.
0:11:42 > 0:11:44CHEERING AND APPLAUSE
0:11:45 > 0:11:48The band from Christchurch didn't make it through
0:11:48 > 0:11:52from the earlier qualifying round. So, it was left to Manawatu
0:11:52 > 0:11:55to fly the flag for New Zealand in the afternoon final.
0:11:55 > 0:11:59Here's a flavour of their March, Strathspey and Reel.
0:12:21 > 0:12:24I was pleased to get through the morning qualifying round
0:12:24 > 0:12:27with the band. We had a couple of small issues.
0:12:27 > 0:12:29But I thought we kept our composure really well out there.
0:12:29 > 0:12:33We expressed the music as I'd hoped to.
0:12:33 > 0:12:35Yeah, we're pleased with that.
0:13:08 > 0:13:11It's a good day for it. Everybody was saying it'd be too wet.
0:13:11 > 0:13:16But it's warm enough and the temperature's quite good.
0:13:16 > 0:13:20So, we didn't have a lot of problems getting to the final.
0:13:20 > 0:13:25We wanted to come here today, we want to get to the final.
0:13:25 > 0:13:28That's why we're here. Top 10 finish would be great for us.
0:13:58 > 0:14:01It went pretty good, it's good to be back in the final.
0:14:01 > 0:14:05We're just coming down from making the final, so that was good.
0:14:05 > 0:14:08It's nice to be back playing in the afternoon.
0:14:36 > 0:14:38It's nice to have a bit of warmth.
0:14:38 > 0:14:42We have had a quite a cold, damp week here in Glasgow.
0:14:42 > 0:14:45We have had a very cold, damp summer back home.
0:14:45 > 0:14:47Not quite as bad as this one!
0:15:36 > 0:15:38And a strong finish, Tom blowing well
0:15:38 > 0:15:40and a precise cut off on that performance.
0:15:42 > 0:15:46We're here to try to win the Championship. There's very tough competition,
0:15:46 > 0:15:49we're not fools in that area, it's going to be difficult.
0:15:49 > 0:15:51But we're here to win.
0:15:52 > 0:15:56Still to come, we'll be hearing from the winning band of last year,
0:15:56 > 0:16:01St Laurence O'Toole, and finding out what it meant to them to claim the title in their centenary year.
0:16:01 > 0:16:06But first, let's take a look at what else is going on around Glasgow Green today.
0:16:06 > 0:16:08There's always a great family atmosphere on site.
0:16:08 > 0:16:12If you want huffing and puffing of a different sort,
0:16:12 > 0:16:14there are the Glasgow World Highland Games.
0:16:16 > 0:16:19Or tough competition goes on at the Highland dancing,
0:16:19 > 0:16:23which is why 30,000 people came to the event this year.
0:16:24 > 0:16:27What makes this event special?
0:16:27 > 0:16:30The pipe band music is beautiful, it's lovely.
0:16:30 > 0:16:32- Are you taking part? - We played this morning.
0:16:32 > 0:16:37- How did you get on? - We didn't qualify, but we got sixth, so we're really, really happy.
0:16:37 > 0:16:41- It's just a fabulous day out. - Yeah, absolutely fabulous.
0:16:41 > 0:16:43We are from Stranraer, which is a very small place,
0:16:43 > 0:16:46and we have the Loch Ryan Pipe Band
0:16:46 > 0:16:49and they used to compete and stopped,
0:16:49 > 0:16:52and recently getting back together and looking to compete again.
0:16:52 > 0:16:56And we're here to try and get a feel of what it's all about,
0:16:56 > 0:16:58because we're coming back next year to compete.
0:16:58 > 0:17:03It really is a great day out and there's plenty to do for many supporters -
0:17:03 > 0:17:07the mums, the dads, the partners of all the players. And you know what?
0:17:07 > 0:17:10Those players will need that support, because in a few minutes,
0:17:10 > 0:17:13we're going to find out the standings at the half way mark.
0:17:13 > 0:17:18But before that let's go back to the March, Strathspey and Reel Round in the main arena.
0:17:36 > 0:17:41There was a fairly significant problem in that introduction in terms of double-toning drums.
0:17:58 > 0:18:01We have had a change in personnel this year from 2010.
0:18:01 > 0:18:03We're rebuilding the band this year.
0:18:03 > 0:18:05We've actually had a reasonable good year.
0:18:05 > 0:18:10Steadied ourselves in Grade One, round about the middle of the grade,
0:18:10 > 0:18:15just not quite making the prize list, but today, it's probably the best we've played all year.
0:18:51 > 0:18:55The guys are happy with their playing. We have lots of new guys this time,
0:18:55 > 0:18:59first time playing with the band. I'm happy with the performance.
0:18:59 > 0:19:02I was anyway, I'll speak to the rest of them and see what it's like.
0:19:10 > 0:19:12That was a confident release into the Strathspey.
0:19:22 > 0:19:25Nothing cautious about the presentation. A good lift and pulse extension.
0:19:50 > 0:19:52Someone said it last year, the best case is winning it,
0:19:52 > 0:19:55but such is the standard of competition
0:19:55 > 0:19:59just now if any band get in the top six this year, it's good going. So I think
0:19:59 > 0:20:00we would like for more,
0:20:00 > 0:20:03but I think we would be happy with that, I guess.
0:20:45 > 0:20:48Anywhere between sixth, tenth maybe less than that, I don't know.
0:20:48 > 0:20:52Hoping for sixth! But it's not my business.
0:20:52 > 0:20:54Our business is just to play the music
0:20:54 > 0:20:57and the rest is up to the guys with the pens.
0:20:57 > 0:21:00That's the March, Strathspey and Reel Round completed.
0:21:00 > 0:21:05You have to do well in that round to be in with a chance of claiming the big prize.
0:21:05 > 0:21:08Let's see who is in the running at this stage.
0:21:08 > 0:21:11In sixth place are the youngsters of Inverary and District.
0:21:11 > 0:21:16Fifth - and a bit off the lead at this stage - are last year's winners, St Laurence O'Toole.
0:21:16 > 0:21:20Next Scottish Power. With Boghall and Bathgate Caledonia third.
0:21:20 > 0:21:24Vancouver's Simon Fraser University are chasing the current leaders,
0:21:24 > 0:21:26who are Field Marshal Montgomery.
0:21:26 > 0:21:29At this stage, they are the band to beat.
0:21:29 > 0:21:33It's time for the Medley Round now and in this round, the bands
0:21:33 > 0:21:36can be a bit more adventurous in their music selection.
0:21:36 > 0:21:40So whose performance will make them World Champions this year?
0:21:40 > 0:21:42Let's go back to the main arena.
0:21:43 > 0:21:47Very sophisticated harmonies, great integration here.
0:22:09 > 0:22:13Have a good listen to what the bass and tenor drums do
0:22:13 > 0:22:15in these jigs.
0:22:15 > 0:22:17Some very lovely, lovely voicing.
0:22:36 > 0:22:40How much of an advantage, disadvantage is it to be on first?
0:22:40 > 0:22:41Depends on how you look at it.
0:22:41 > 0:22:44The way I look at it is you get the chance to go on and set the standard.
0:22:44 > 0:22:49I suppose then everybody else has got to play up to that mark.
0:22:49 > 0:22:52So if you play well, then it can be a good thing.
0:23:13 > 0:23:18An excellent introduction and a very well presented version
0:23:18 > 0:23:21of Captain Carswell, the great 2/4 march.
0:23:31 > 0:23:35Tell me what it means for a band to come so far to the Worlds here.
0:23:35 > 0:23:37It is really special.
0:23:37 > 0:23:39The bagpipes are from here. We all grew up with
0:23:39 > 0:23:41icons from Scotland and this area,
0:23:41 > 0:23:45you know, Ireland and Scotland and it just feels special to come here.
0:23:45 > 0:23:50- How do you think you did in the competition?- Good. We're very pleased with how we did.
0:23:50 > 0:23:53Our goal was to move up the ladder a little bit and we will see what happens.
0:24:19 > 0:24:23Into their final tune, great tune, Jenny Dang The Weaver.
0:24:24 > 0:24:28I think it is about the third part we should really watch
0:24:28 > 0:24:30the whole percussion section here.
0:24:34 > 0:24:36Here we are.
0:25:00 > 0:25:04Very strong finish to that performance.
0:25:04 > 0:25:06Terry, how was it for you?
0:25:06 > 0:25:09It was pretty good for me, thank you very much.
0:25:09 > 0:25:11- Big band, big noise, big cheer? - Yes, glad to hear that.
0:25:11 > 0:25:15Coming all this way from Canada, a bit of rain through the week,
0:25:15 > 0:25:19it's nice and steady now, we're appreciating that. Really enjoyed that run, thank you.
0:25:19 > 0:25:22And how near the prey are you this year?
0:25:22 > 0:25:24Well, the prey are very good this year.
0:25:24 > 0:25:29- So we're hoping to stay with them and...- We're talking Field Marshal Montgomery I take it?
0:25:29 > 0:25:33I'm talking Field Marshal Montgomery, God love them, they're brilliant.
0:25:33 > 0:25:37- So they're the ones to beat? - In my opinion, they're the ones to beat this year.
0:25:39 > 0:25:43More music in a moment, but to give you an idea of just how significant this competition is
0:25:43 > 0:25:47to those who take part, we have been speaking to last year's winner,
0:25:47 > 0:25:50St Laurence O'Toole from the Republic of Ireland.
0:25:50 > 0:25:54This is their secret preparation area, tucked away at Glasgow Green.
0:25:54 > 0:25:57But they, with perfect timing last year, picked up
0:25:57 > 0:26:01the title for the first time in what was their centenary year.
0:26:01 > 0:26:04That must have been quite a party!
0:26:07 > 0:26:122010 and the band knew that to win the Worlds in their centenary year
0:26:12 > 0:26:14would be the best way to mark their anniversary.
0:26:14 > 0:26:18Last year was probably the most busiest year we have ever had.
0:26:19 > 0:26:24We started off our centenary year with a huge celebration
0:26:24 > 0:26:28in March time that went on for almost three days.
0:26:28 > 0:26:33And from that then the season just became busier.
0:26:33 > 0:26:38The band started off the season reasonably well and it just got better as it went along.
0:26:38 > 0:26:41But their win was certainly no coronation.
0:26:41 > 0:26:45It was a tense moment late that summer's day last August.
0:26:45 > 0:26:48Grade One World Champions...
0:26:49 > 0:26:52..winning the RSPBA Jubilee Trophy and banner...
0:26:54 > 0:26:56..St Laurence O'Toole, No 16.
0:26:56 > 0:26:59WILD CHEERING AND APPLAUSE
0:26:59 > 0:27:05In the 100 years of the band's history, this was the pinnacle of their career so far.
0:27:05 > 0:27:08To hear St Laurence O'Toole's being called out as Grade One World Champions was
0:27:08 > 0:27:12the most amazing experience, the most amazing feeling.
0:27:12 > 0:27:16And as a group, because we work so hard all season, all winter,
0:27:16 > 0:27:20to get there, just to get that payoff was absolutely amazing.
0:27:22 > 0:27:25But a new year means a new season of competitions.
0:27:25 > 0:27:29So far the band has taken second place at both European and British
0:27:29 > 0:27:34Championships and the pressure is starting to build on Glasgow Green.
0:27:34 > 0:27:39It's early morning and we're starting to feel the butterflies and things,
0:27:39 > 0:27:41but just can't wait to get started.
0:27:41 > 0:27:44We want to win today. Don't get me wrong,
0:27:44 > 0:27:48getting the prize of the World Championships is a massive feat
0:27:48 > 0:27:51and everyone wants to get in there on the prize list.
0:27:51 > 0:27:54But we're going in there to defend our title and we don't want to lose it.
0:27:55 > 0:28:01Everybody in the band is up for it today. We know that we have a really strong chance of doing well today.
0:28:01 > 0:28:06We've been coming here for 30 years, so we're not going to stop now.
0:28:06 > 0:28:10So fighting to hold on to their world title, can this medley
0:28:10 > 0:28:13performance make it two in a row for St Laurence O'Toole?
0:28:37 > 0:28:41Very lyrical slow air and then into that lovely transition
0:28:41 > 0:28:43that they have constructed into the waltz time.
0:29:06 > 0:29:11We wanted the come out and defend our title to the best of our ability.
0:29:11 > 0:29:13I think we have done that.
0:29:13 > 0:29:15I hope the judges think that as well.
0:29:22 > 0:29:26And another clever transition into the reel version of this tune.
0:30:08 > 0:30:13The chanters are probably closer than ever at the World Championship, so that makes a big difference
0:30:13 > 0:30:18to the guys' confidence when the chanters are really well set and the guys just go on and play.
0:30:18 > 0:30:22- So we have done all we can. - Fourth last year. What do you hope for this year?
0:30:22 > 0:30:27- I said the top three last year and see where that got me! - You have to aim for the top.
0:30:27 > 0:30:30Absolutely. Well we always do, so fingers crossed.
0:30:57 > 0:31:00Great musical jig playing, a tiny bit on the careful side.
0:31:24 > 0:31:29Things have been going well for you, because you have been slowly but surely moving up the rankings.
0:31:29 > 0:31:31Yeah, we're making steady progress.
0:31:31 > 0:31:33We've got a good team of guys and they work hard.
0:31:33 > 0:31:37I'd rather it was this way, working slowly and getting it right.
0:31:37 > 0:31:39How do you think you have done this year?
0:31:39 > 0:31:42This morning wasn't as good as this afternoon.
0:31:42 > 0:31:48I think we with the reel with the wind, it was a bit shaky, but that performance I was really happy with.
0:32:44 > 0:32:46This year's been quite hard going.
0:32:46 > 0:32:49But today we had to qualify this morning.
0:32:49 > 0:32:53How hard was that, both playing and on stress levels?
0:32:53 > 0:32:56Stressful. It's the first time I've had to qualify in Grade One.
0:32:56 > 0:33:00I've been lucky enough to be through to the final every year until this year.
0:33:00 > 0:33:02But it's a good experience for the guys.
0:33:02 > 0:33:06It's really sharpened up their fitness and really made them concentrate hard.
0:33:06 > 0:33:12We knew we potentially had three performances today. So I'm delighted with the effort and application
0:33:12 > 0:33:15the guys put in and I'm delighted with that medley. Really chuffed.
0:33:17 > 0:33:21The tension is mounting as we get closer to finding out who will be World Champions.
0:33:21 > 0:33:26But let's join someone you may remember - Stuart Liddell of Inverary and District Pipe Band.
0:33:26 > 0:33:30And let's just remind you of what an incredible year it was last year.
0:33:30 > 0:33:34The band's first year in Grade One and they came in the top ten.
0:33:34 > 0:33:38- Now, that was last year. Dare I ask how this year's gone? - This year's been fantastic.
0:33:38 > 0:33:45We have had three previous Championships, we have been in the top six prize list and, yeah...
0:33:45 > 0:33:47it's going well.
0:33:47 > 0:33:49The march goes on.
0:33:49 > 0:33:53Tell me, what strikes me is how young so many of your band members seem to be.
0:33:53 > 0:33:58- How old are they?- Well, the majority are around about the 19 mark.
0:33:58 > 0:34:05Our bass drummer is 15 and I think I'm the second oldest in the band at...
0:34:05 > 0:34:07And you're only a boy yourself!
0:34:07 > 0:34:09I'm glad you cut me off there!
0:34:09 > 0:34:11I'm just a young fella.
0:34:11 > 0:34:13What are you hoping for this year?
0:34:13 > 0:34:17It won't be top three. That's taken care of, I think.
0:34:17 > 0:34:20Fourth and fifth?
0:34:20 > 0:34:24No, I don't think so. I think anywhere between sixth and ninth
0:34:24 > 0:34:26is probably more realistic for us.
0:34:26 > 0:34:28I'm hoping for sixth.
0:34:28 > 0:34:30Well, the fairy tale may well go on.
0:34:30 > 0:34:32We wish you the very best of luck.
0:34:32 > 0:34:38Let's find out now how the band get on as they enter the Grade One Arena for the medley performance.
0:35:01 > 0:35:05They're teasing us now, they're playing the Kesh Waltz and the Kesh Jig.
0:35:05 > 0:35:07Inter-facing one with the other.
0:35:07 > 0:35:13Very difficult to do. Artfully done. Very, very good.
0:35:35 > 0:35:37- Your initial feelings?- Very good.
0:35:37 > 0:35:40Aye, that was great. Of all the performance this year,
0:35:40 > 0:35:43I think I will take that as the best one for us this year so far.
0:35:43 > 0:35:48- So, happy.- You said you set your players a challenging medley. How did they perform?
0:35:48 > 0:35:51They did exceptionally well. The rain came on us,
0:35:51 > 0:35:55didn't seem to faze them, very delighted with the way they handled it.
0:36:24 > 0:36:27Love the bass chanter work in that part. Lovely.
0:36:29 > 0:36:32Very sophisticated jig playing by the Pipe Corum.
0:36:34 > 0:36:35It was very enjoyable.
0:36:35 > 0:36:39I really enjoyed where I was, I will need to talk to the rest of guys,
0:36:39 > 0:36:42but it's music, it's suppose to be enjoyable. So it's good.
0:36:42 > 0:36:44And by all accounts a very strong first round?
0:36:44 > 0:36:48We'll see, it is up to the judges, but we were quite happy with it.
0:36:58 > 0:37:01Amazing top hand articulation.
0:37:31 > 0:37:33They are totally in the zone.
0:38:31 > 0:38:34Now, quiet, considered Richard Parkes won't like this,
0:38:34 > 0:38:37but the word on the street was before today,
0:38:37 > 0:38:40on your form this year, you had the Worlds to lose.
0:38:40 > 0:38:42How do you think you did?
0:38:44 > 0:38:47I would never say that you have the Worlds to lose,
0:38:47 > 0:38:50it's all on the day, a lot of good bands out there.
0:38:50 > 0:38:54As we always say, a lot of great bands. I don't think the Worlds was ours to lose today.
0:38:54 > 0:38:59I knew you wouldn't like that! You and I haven't chatted on the winner's rostrum for a few years,
0:38:59 > 0:39:02how likely is it that we're going to meet again today?
0:39:03 > 0:39:06I can't say that, Jackie.
0:39:06 > 0:39:11I would love to meet you on the winner's rostrum today, I would love to have that opportunity.
0:39:12 > 0:39:16That's it, all the finalists have completed both sections of the competition.
0:39:16 > 0:39:19All that's left now is for the judges to tally the scores
0:39:19 > 0:39:22and soon we will know who the World Champions are. Bob joins me again.
0:39:22 > 0:39:26Bob, a great day. What were the highlights performances for you?
0:39:26 > 0:39:27I thoroughly enjoyed it.
0:39:27 > 0:39:30I think there were a number of bands that were really strong in both
0:39:30 > 0:39:33and ultimately at the end of the day,
0:39:33 > 0:39:37there are going to be six bands vying for positions two to six.
0:39:37 > 0:39:43In the morning, you said, based on form, there was going to be one winner and that was...?
0:39:43 > 0:39:47I think the winner today will be Field Marshal Montgomery Pipe Band.
0:39:47 > 0:39:50Thank you for that. Will it be Field Marshal Montgomery?
0:39:50 > 0:39:52They were the favourites.
0:39:52 > 0:39:55Or will St Laurence O'Toole make its two in a row?
0:39:55 > 0:39:59What about a Scottish win? We haven't had one for six long years.
0:39:59 > 0:40:01Well, we're about to find out.
0:40:05 > 0:40:10Grade One, World Champions 2011.
0:40:12 > 0:40:14In first place...
0:40:14 > 0:40:17winning the RSPBA Jubilee trophy and banner...
0:40:18 > 0:40:23- ..Field Marshal Montgomery, No 19. - CHEERING AND APPLAUSE
0:40:25 > 0:40:28And in second place,
0:40:28 > 0:40:31Simon Fraser University, No 15.
0:40:36 > 0:40:38In third place, Scottish Power, No 4.
0:40:43 > 0:40:45In fourth place...
0:40:45 > 0:40:48Inverary and District, No 21.
0:41:01 > 0:41:06Richard Parkes, Field Marshal Montgomery, you are a very happy man today. You were the band to beat.
0:41:06 > 0:41:09Did that make it even harder today?
0:41:09 > 0:41:13It did indeed. But I have got a really strong band at the minute.
0:41:13 > 0:41:17I'm really pleased with how they played today and we couldn't have asked for any more.
0:41:17 > 0:41:21We played really well both times. So it was an excellent day for us.
0:41:21 > 0:41:27It has been few years since you had your hands on that trophy, were you itching for it?
0:41:27 > 0:41:29Yeah, it's been a wee while since you have interviewed me!
0:41:29 > 0:41:34I'm very pleased to be here now, and I mean we really wanted it today.
0:41:34 > 0:41:38The band's up this year, from last year.
0:41:38 > 0:41:43So we have worked hard all winter and very pleased with the result.
0:41:43 > 0:41:48I was looking back at the records, it is nearly 20 years since YOU first won it as a Pipe Major.
0:41:48 > 0:41:51Does the feeling change in any way?
0:41:51 > 0:41:54Absolutely not. It gets better every time!
0:41:54 > 0:41:57As I said, you had a fantastic season.
0:41:57 > 0:42:02- What was the magic ingredient this year?- It's the hard work that the guys have all put in,
0:42:02 > 0:42:06the fact that we didn't win it - for three years second -
0:42:06 > 0:42:11we really wanted it, we worked hard and it's paid dividends this year.
0:42:11 > 0:42:16Ladies and gentlemen, let's hear it for the World Pipe Band Champions 2011, Field Marshal Montgomery!
0:42:16 > 0:42:19CHEERING AND APPLAUSE
0:42:20 > 0:42:23How did the other positions shape up?
0:42:23 > 0:42:27It's a Scottish band in sixth position, Boghall and Bathgate Caledonia.
0:42:27 > 0:42:32Not making it two in a row this year, St Laurence O'Toole, last year's champions, are fifth.
0:42:32 > 0:42:37A great result for Inverary and District, higher than they expected at fourth.
0:42:37 > 0:42:43Next another Scottish band placing very well, it's Scottish Power, will who be happy with that.
0:42:43 > 0:42:47Simon Fraser missed out this year on the top spot, which, of course, goes to Northern Ireland
0:42:47 > 0:42:50and Field Marshal Montgomery.
0:42:50 > 0:42:53That's it from Glasgow Green,
0:42:53 > 0:42:56the world's best came to battle it out.
0:42:56 > 0:42:58The world title was won by Field Marshal Montgomery,
0:42:58 > 0:43:01who are making their triumphant march behind me.
0:43:01 > 0:43:07- And what a performance from them. - Two great performances, a 100% deserved win. Terrific.
0:43:07 > 0:43:10If you want some more, then go online to:
0:43:14 > 0:43:18But from Bob and from me, and a jubilant Field Marshal Montgomery, thank you for watching. Bye-bye.
0:43:45 > 0:43:48Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd
0:43:48 > 0:43:51E-mail subtitling@bbc.co.uk