About Us
The Northern Ireland Piping and Drumming School
Founded in 1980, the Northern Ireland Piping and Drumming School is proudly supported by an annual grant from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland. Our mission is to provide inclusive, high-quality music education to students of all ages and skill levels.
What We Offer
We provide certified tuition in piping, drumming, and Highland dancing, structured to accommodate complete beginners through to experienced performers and instructors.
🎵 Practical & Theory Courses
Our curriculum is divided into eight progressive grades in both theory and practical performance. Students are assessed separately in each, with flexibility built in to support individual learning paths.
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Piping – Grades 1 to 8
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Snare Drumming – All levels
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Bass & Tenor Drumming – Grades 1 to 5
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Drum Majoring – Certified courses with music theory
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Highland Dancing – Nationally recognised certification
Students can pursue a balance of practical and theoretical training, with a focus on developing both performance skills and musical literacy. A maximum two-grade difference is allowed between theory and practice to ensure well-rounded progression.
🎓 Examinations & Accreditation
An external examiner is appointed annually to maintain high standards and assess students sitting school examinations.
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Preparation for PDQB (SQA) exams up to Level 4 (entry requires Grade 8 in both theory and practical)
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Support for GCSE Performance Skills (Levels 1 & 2); Level 3 in development (with UCAS points)
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Recognition for Duke of Edinburgh Award – Skills Section
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Many of our students have progressed to GCE and university-level music degrees
🎶 Masterclasses & Advanced Training
We provide expert-led masterclasses and instructor training in specialized areas including:
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Piobaireachd & Canntaireachd
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Piping for Highland Dancing
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Breton & Irish Traditional Music
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Percussion – Drum kit, hand drumming, bodhrán
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Instructor certification programs
Our school is also open to drummers from flute, accordion, and other bands who wish to build foundational skills or refine their technique.
🌍 Achievements & Community
Our tutors and students have won top awards in solo and band competitions, with many leading groups to world titles. While some come for competition, many join us to gain teaching qualifications or simply to enjoy making music with confidence and community support.
📍 Locations & Timings
We operate from two permanent centres:
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Laurelhill Community College, Lisburn
Saturdays – 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM -
Ranfurly House, Dungannon
Wednesdays – from 7:00 PM
Additional class times available by arrangement.
Whether you're starting your musical journey or advancing toward professional certification, the Northern Ireland Piping and Drumming School offers a supportive, structured, and inspiring environment to help you reach your goals.