Get ready to elevate your piping and drumming skills with an incredible lineup of instructors at the Sydney School of Piping & Drumming’s “Pipes in Paradise” event! We’ve brought together some of the most respected and experienced individuals from the Australian piping world to guide you, ensuring you receive top-tier instruction and an unforgettable learning experience.
Our mentors are not just skilled musicians; they’re passionate educators dedicated to helping you reach your full potential. Let’s introduce you to the experts who will be sharing their knowledge and expertise.
Jonno McIntyre: The Sound Architect
Jonno McIntyre is our resident sound and bagpipe setup expert. He’s here to make sure your instrument is perfectly tuned and ready to sing. Getting that ideal tone is crucial for any piper, and Jonno’s keen ear and technical know-how will be invaluable in helping you achieve it.
Jonno’s Journey: Jonno’s piping journey began at the age of eight, honing his craft at Scotch College Adelaide, where he collected numerous prizes nationally and internationally. At just 18, he was invited back to teach at Scotch College, a testament to his early talent and dedication. His extensive piping career has taken him around the globe, competing with top bands like the Pipe Band Club (Grade 1), Worcester Kiltie (Grade 3 World Champions 2016), and Governor Macquarie Memorial Pipe Band (Grade 3), among others. He was also a member of the successful City of Whitehorse Pipe Band (Grade 1). Jonno has led seven international tours and competed multiple times in New Zealand. While he’s achieved success in solo competitions, his true passion lies in helping students discover their own love for piping and achieving a truly great bagpipe sound.
Sam Young: Master of Piobaireachd
Delve deep into the intricate world of piobaireachd with Sam Young. He will guide you through this ancient art form, uncovering its beauty and complexity. Sam’s profound understanding of classical pipe music makes him the ideal mentor for those looking to master this challenging and rewarding genre.
Sam’s Legacy: With a remarkable 60-year history in piping, Sam Young is a passionate advocate for the art form. He began his piping in 1960 under his father, Ian Young, and later had the privilege of studying under the Queen’s Piper, P/M RB Nicol of Balmoral. Sam has competed successfully in solo events and with pipe bands for over 40 years, including as a piper in the Grade 1 Queensland Irish Association Pipe Band. For 17 years, he served as Pipe Major of the reformed NSW Police Pipe Band, leading them to significant success. Sam is a highly respected adjudicator, having served on the Australian Pipe Band College and Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association’s International Adjudicators Panels. His adjudication career spans decades, encompassing major competitions in Australia, the UK, New Zealand, and the USA, including the World Pipe Band Championships. Since retiring, Sam’s primary focus is teaching and promoting his great passion: piobaireachd.
Barry Gray: The Pillars of Technique Timing and the schools administrator
As the Sydney School of Piping & Drumming’s head administrator, Barry Gray will be on hand to ensure everything runs smoothly, allowing you to focus purely on your piping. But don’t let his administrative role fool you – Barry will also be sharing his extensive expertise in techniques and timing, crucial elements for any aspiring piper.
Barry’s Experience: Barry Gray brings over 50 years of experience playing the bagpipes. He has competed twice in Scotland with the world-famous Dysart & Dundonald Pipe Band and also in Grade 1 with the New Zealand Police Pipe Band and the Fife Constabulary. Barry holds the Australian Pipe Band College Advanced Certificate (1984) and served as Pipe Major and Musical Director of the City of Blacktown Pipe Bands for over three decades. He has been the NSW Open Solo Champion on numerous occasions and has competed in solo competitions in Scotland and as an Australian representative at yeh world invitational MacCallum Trophy in Lorient, France in 1999. Today, Barry is a highly sought-after adjudicator, recitalist, and instructor across Australia and Asia, making him an invaluable asset to our program.
. With Jonno ensuring your instrument sings, Sam guiding you through the depths of piobaireachd, and Barry overseeing a seamless experience while refining your techniques, you're in expert hands. Get ready to learn from the best and make the most of your "Pipes in Paradise" experience!](https://sydneyschoolofpipinganddrumming.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/2-1024x576.png)
Pipes in Paradise Workshop Details
From Monday, December 8th to Friday, December 12th, immerse yourself in our comprehensive 5-day piping workshop. Each day, from 9 am to 3 pm, you’ll receive expert instruction, delve into technique, and expand your repertoire. The workshop price is $850 AUD, which includes your daily lunch, prepared by a chef in the villa.
Accommodation
For information about accommodation options for the “Pipes in Paradise” retreat in Bali, please click here.
With Jonno ensuring your instrument sings, Sam guiding you through the depths of piobaireachd, and Barry overseeing a seamless experience while refining your techniques, you’re in expert hands. Get ready to learn from the best and make the most of your “Pipes in Paradise” experience!
Enroll now by emailing info@sydneyschoolofpipinganddrumming.com.au
or call us at +61 412 602 983.