About Us

Balmoral School Mission Statement

“To raise the standard and promote the appreciation of bagpipe music in the USA by providing world-class instruction, cultivating excellence in youth, presenting innovative musical events, and fostering tradition."

Balmoral School of Piping & Drumming was established in 1978 by co-founders George Balderose (photo) and James McIntosh, MBE, and is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. The school celebrates and teaches traditional bagpipe music dating to the 15th century, as well as more recent compositions in the traditional style, including the competition repertoire. Balmoral® is a registered service mark of Balmoral School of Piping & Drumming.

Balmoral School Objectives

  • Establish Pittsburgh as a national center for American bagpiping.
  • Establish the Balmoral School as the national leader in the training of young American pipers.
  • Promote a long-term commitment of young people to culture and heritage and associate our supporters with long-term and healthy youth and family values.
  • Widen the public’s appreciation of bagpipe music through innovative and collaborative concerts that showcase quality traditional and original bagpipe music.