Progressive Certification Program
The Progressive Certification Program falls under the education board of
the EUSPBA and is as follows:
The EUSPBA is pleased to offer this program with the hope that many
members will use it as a means of improving themselves in their musical
discipline. Through the certification program the EUSPBA encourages
competitors and players not only to achieve higher playing standards, but
also to be well rounded musicians.
The program involves demonstrating five levels of proficiency in piping,
four in snare drumming, four in bass and tenor and three in drum majors, by
sitting examinations. Successful candidates are awarded certificates.
The exams consist of a practical and playing portion to show mastery of
rudiments, repertoire and written or verbal questions on maintenance and
musical theory. Candidates at any level are assumed to have mastered the
requirements of all previous levels by holding certificates, or by
demonstrating their abilities.
You don’t need to be a competitor to take advantage of the program. In
fact, the program offers an “achievement ladder” for non-competitors. You
also don’t need to be a member of EUSPBA, but the cost of each exam is $5.
less for members.
History of Piping Families
One of the requirements for the graduate certificate is to write a
history of 1000 words on one of the famous piping families. For example, The
MacCrimmons, The MacArthurs, The MacKays of Gairloch, etc. These written
essays must be done the day of the exam in front of the examiner. The
following compilations have been created by The Army School of Bagpipe Music
and Highland Drumming in Scotland, which has graciously granted permission
for us to present this information here on the EUSPBA web site.