The Best of 2013 – The Results

Best International Piper of 2013

Stuart Liddell/Iain Speirs

Stuart Liddell and Iain Speirs tied for votes overall – Iain Speirs the slightly more popular choice in the experts column, and Stuart Liddell the slightly more popular choice in the people’s choice column.

Both men excelled this year. Stuart Liddell – amongst other prizes – won all three major events at Inverness; the Clasp, the Silver Star MMSSRR and the A Grade Hornpipe & Jig. Stuart also led his Inverary and District Pipe Band in undoubtedly their most successful season yet, as well as mounting a huge concert and performing an amazing solo.

Iain Speirs had another outstanding year, winning his second Glenfiddich Championship, and also taking his second Open Piobaireachd at London, and the 2013 Captain John MacLellan Medal, plus a myriad of other prizes to his name. He is certainly one of the most consistent and musical players around currently, possibly ever.

Some comments from our experts:

• Iain Speirs is certainly the greatest piper currently alive. He oozes music, and his consistency is first rate.
• Stuart Liddell is that all-round fantastic piper – an outstanding band and an oustanding soloist. There may not be anyone better, if ever.

Also in consideration:

• Richard Parkes
  Richard Parkes led Field Marshal Montgomery to a clean-sweep of the 2013 calendar, never dropping a contest. His perfectionist leadership is why Field Marshal is what they are, and his vision will continue on as long as he stays in the top job.
• Jack Lee
  Jack Lee won the Senior Piobaireachd at Oban, the Masters Overall at PipingLive! and had prizes in both the Former Winner light music events at Oban and Inverness – some said he should have been higher at both. He went on to claim the MSR at the Glenfiddich as well. Jack continues to mesmerize with his clarity and sound and ultimate music.
• Alan Bevan
  Not only did Alan Bevan get handed the top job at Simon Fraser University Pipe Band, but he won a Gold Medal and challenged highly for light music prizes at Oban. His bagpipe and technique are of impressive quality and Alan will surely go down in history as one of the worlds greatest pipers.