Heidelberg & District Pipes and Drums bring a taste of Germany’s thriving pipe band scene to the heart of Glasgow, performing on Buchanan Street as part of Piping Live! 2026.
Founded in 2000, the Heidelberg-based band has grown into an established part of the European piping community, combining regular competition with performances, workshops and the development of new generations of pipers and drummers. Led by Pipe Major Niklas McPhee, the band travelled to Scotland for Worlds Week and the opportunity to compete against bands from around the globe.
In this TRADtv feature, we catch Heidelberg & District performing for the crowds on Buchanan Street and speak with key members of the band about their journey from Germany to Glasgow, their involvement in the international pipe band scene and the build-up to the 2026 World Pipe Band Championships.
Their trip would ultimately end with an impressive fifth-place finish in Grade 4A at the Worlds on Glasgow Green.
TRADtv celebrates the bands, musicians and stories that make the international piping community what it is. Subscribe for more performances, interviews and coverage from Piping Live!, the World Pipe Band Championships and beyond.