a day ago
- Entertainment
- Glasgow Times
Influential Scottish bagpiper awarded BEM in Glasgow
Christopher Armstrong was awarded the medal in honour of his services to music, particularly his significant contribution to the piping world.
The award was presented at a ceremony at Glasgow's City Chambers by Depute Lord Lieutenant Rajan Madhok, on behalf of King Charles III.
He was joined at the ceremony by his partner Emma, daughter Piper, his parents, and his sister.
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Chris said: "I am truly humbled to be recognised in this way and delighted to be receiving this award."
The accolade acknowledges the piper's nearly 40-year career as a celebrated performer, composer, teacher, pipe major, and key player in the evolution of bagpipe music.
Chris, originally from Boghall in Bathgate, first became captivated by the sound of the pipes at a local gala day.
He said: "From as early as five, I knew this was what I wanted to do.
"The spectacle of seeing the pipe band playing at the local gala day really captivated me."
His musical journey began a year later when he first picked up the practice chanter, a step that would eventually lead him to become a major figure in the piping world.
His accolades include winning the Highland Society of London's gold medal and leading the ScottishPower pipe band, which he has directed for 20 years.
His solo achievements include the Bratach Gorm and placings at the Pipe Major Donald MacLeod memorial competition, and the J.B. Robertson Rose Bowl, among others.
However, Chris's contribution to music extends beyond his personal accolades.
He has also helped to redefine modern piping by blending global genres, embracing technology, and publishing compositions that have reached musicians worldwide.
His influence extends beyond Scotland, having delivered workshops across Europe, the United States, New Zealand, and Northern Ireland.
His entrepreneurial ventures, including the launch of Xtreme drone reeds and collaborations with leading bagpipe makers, have created new standards for sustainability and innovation in instrument design.
Depute Lord Lieutenant Rajan Madhok said: "Chris is a true ambassador for Glasgow and Scotland.
"His passion, creativity, and commitment to excellence have elevated piping on the world stage.
"He's not only preserved a tradition, but he's transformed it.
"This honour is richly deserved."
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Currently, Chris teaches across schools in East Ayrshire, helping to shape the future of piping.
He said: "I'm lucky enough to be doing something which I love, am passionate about, and having the musical career that I have enjoyed so far.
"Now, I get the pleasure of encouraging the next generation of bagpipe musicians and supporting them in their future careers."
