Kingston Ceol Mor Society - Ian K MacDonald Workshop

Join us for a special day of music, learning, and conversations in Kingston with internationally acclaimed piper, instructor, and competitor Ian K. MacDonald. This workshop is designed for pipers with a basic foundation in piobaireachd technique and notation, generally suited to Grades 5–2, and aims to support players at a range of skill levels.

Workshop (1:00–4:00 PM)

Ian will lead participants through an accessible easy-to-medium piobaireachd, offering in-depth musical insight, stylistic discussion, and technical refinement. Whether you’re strengthening fundamentals or exploring deeper interpretive ideas, this session is an excellent opportunity to learn from one of the most respected performers in the art form.

Break (4:00–5:30/6:00 PM)

Enjoy dinner on your own, connect with fellow pipers, or take a moment to recharge before the evening program.

Piobaireachd Club Gathering (6:00 PM onward)

Modeled after the well-loved New Brunswick format, our evening gathering features Ian and three additional pipers, each presenting a piobaireachd with time between performances (about 15–20 minutes) for socializing, conversation, and refreshments. Players are encouraged to share history, background, and interpretive notes on their chosen tunes, making this a relaxed and enriching night of ceòl mòr appreciation.

Whether you’re looking to deepen your understanding of piobaireachd or simply enjoy an inspiring evening in good company, this event promises a memorable experience for learners and enthusiasts alike.