From my days in the Can. Black Watch

**NorCalPiper** · 25th March 10, 02:52 PM

In retrospect, I think that was really one of the funnest times of my life. To be 16 and by myself in Montreal at age 16.....Wow!
At that time Pipe Major Andy Kerr was leading up the BW band and had really done a good job. I can't remember if we competed grade 2, or 3...I think it was grade 2. Anyway, he had selected some fantastic tunes for MSR and MEdley, and really sculpted us for that competition at MAxville. I can't remember if we won (I actually think we placed 3rd), but that was the summer that the 78th Frasers (The big band led by Bill Livingston) was taking the world by storm with their precision tuning and technicality, and P/M Kerr really strove to emulate that kind of sound. That was really the turning point for improving my piping, and after that summer I moved up to Grade 2 for solos and really got into piping with the Atlanta Pipe Band.....Although I missed the regimental look and discipline of the BW.

I haven't thought of those days in a LONG time!

**BoldHighlander** · 25th March 10, 02:55 PM

Priceless memories...I'm glad you shared it with us

**BobsYourUncle** · 25th March 10, 03:59 PM

Awesome stuff, Josh. Thanks!

**GMan** · 25th March 10, 04:19 PM

You do look great!

**mull** · 25th March 10, 04:28 PM

Not only a great look, it explains your love of horsehair sporrans and formal dress.

**NorCalPiper** · 25th March 10, 05:43 PM

BINGO!!! I LOVED being in the BW garrison. There were Sporrans, pipes (I think there was a set from Waterloo), tunics, doublets, portraits...It was INCREDIBLE and it had a lasting effect to this day!