Attending the Isle of Arran Music School’s Summer School for Pipe Band offers a wealth of benefits for students at every stage, from beginners to seasoned performance band members. For new starters, the summer school provides an immersive, supportive environment to develop foundational skills in piping and drumming, allowing them to learn at their own pace while being inspired by more experienced peers. Intermediate and performance band members benefit from focused workshops that refine their technique, enhance ensemble playing, and prepare them for competitions and public performances, helping to build confidence, resilience, and teamwork.

The summer school also fosters a strong sense of community and belonging. Students form lasting friendships and learn the importance of collaboration, discipline, and mutual support—skills that are transferable beyond music into academic and personal life. The opportunity to perform at community events and competitions further boosts self-esteem and provides real-world experience.

For music leaders and advanced students who teach younger participants, the experience is equally rewarding. Acting as mentors, they develop leadership, communication, and teaching skills, often working towards formal qualifications such as the SQA Music Leadership Award. This not only strengthens their own musical understanding but also instills a sense of responsibility and pride as they contribute to the next generation’s musical journey.

Costs

Tutors- £3000

Accomadation £800

Lunch £500

Transport £200

Hall Hire £600

We have 40 local children that attend the junior triathlon club weekly on Arran. We hold 3 swim and run sessions and a cycling session every week. We have 6 volunteer coaches. We are looking for funding to help with the pool costs and the competition costs of sending our athletes to the mainland which usually includes overnight accomodation due to early start times.We are also looking for funding to help with the costs of training new coaches and current coaches. The cost breakdown is as follows:

Pool hire £150 per week for 6 weeks = £900, New coach foundation triathlon course £100.

Being part of the Isle of Arran Competition Pipe Band is more than just learning music – it’s about teamwork, confidence, travel, and representing our island community with pride. Young people who join the band gain new skills in discipline and performance, make lifelong friends, and experience the excitement of playing on some of the biggest stages at RSPBA competitions. Standing in the competition circle alongside other bands from across Scotland and beyond is an unforgettable and inspiring opportunity for every player. However, taking part at this level comes with significant costs. Travel, accommodation, entry fees, and uniforms all add up. Last season, the cost of competing was around £10,000, which was well above the charity’s budget. Despite this challenge, it has been hugely worthwhile for the development of the band and its players. As we look ahead, we want to make sure every committed band member has the chance to apply and take part in the coming season. With the support of our community and supporters, we can continue to give young people on Arran the opportunity to compete on a national stage, develop their musical talents, and proudly represent our island and North Ayrshire.

Accom £4000

Travel £ 3000

Tutors £1500

Food £1500

Mountain bike leader training £295 x 4 = £1180

Mountain bike leader assessment £195 x 4 = £780

First aid training £95 each x 4 = £380

TOTAL £2340

Arran High School Mountain Bike Club would fund the remaining amount through our own money gained from donations and fundraising.