Sri Dasmesh Pipe Band finishes seventh in Glasgow
PETALING JAYA: Eleven years after stunning themselves by reaching the finals of the World Pipe Band Championships for the first time, the Sri Dasmesh Pipe Band continues to prove that young Malaysians can hold their own on one of the world’s biggest stages.
This year, 28 members of the Kuala Lumpur-based band travelled to Glasgow, Scotland, for their fourth appearance at the championships, finishing seventh in one of the world’s most prestigious pipe band competitions.
Bands from 14 countries took part, making it the largest gathering of bagpipers in the world.
For band chairman and drum sergeant Tripert Singh, the result marked another milestone in a journey that began with an unexpected breakthrough in 2015.
“Although we did not finish among the top six that time, the experience showed us that we could compete with some of the best in the world,” he said.
Four years later, the band went a step further, winning the world championship in Grade 4B.
“We had a great victory in 2019 when we won first place.
“Our achievement made headlines during the National Month,” Tripert said, adding that the band also won the overall title in drumming and the trophy for best band on parade.
After moving up to Grade 4A, the band returned to the championships in 2023, reaching the finals again and finishing ninth.
“This year, we climbed another two places to seventh,” said Tripert.
But getting to Scotland is about far more than competition results.
The band’s members, aged between 14 and early 30s, include students and young professionals who have to juggle studies and careers with demanding practice schedules.
“We train three times a week for up to three hours on some days, with additional practices held as competitions approach,” Tripert said.
Many of the younger members also practise on their own and send videos to instructors for feedback.
Performing overseas presents another set of challenges.
“Factors such as the weather, surroundings and acoustics can affect how the instruments sound, meaning performing in Scotland is different from practising in Malaysia.
“But through it all, I noticed that since our first participation in the championships, our members have pushed through these challenges and adapted well,” he said.
Then there are the financial hurdles.
“To fund our activities, we raise money through performances, concerts and corporate sponsorships, with members sometimes contributing from their own pockets,” said Tripert.
For the band, however, the chance to represent Malaysia internationally, and to be the only pipe band from Asia competing in the championships, makes the sacrifices worthwhile.
“Achieving this world championship placing is a source of immense pride, and we are honoured to bring it home to Malaysia for National Day,” said Tripert.
The band now hopes to return to the championships next year and continue climbing the rankings.
Its longer-term ambition is to reach the highest competition grade in Scotland and eventually compete alongside the world’s top pipe bands.
Tripert also hopes the government will consider providing financial assistance to help the band pursue that ambition.
