The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association (RSPBA) and Glasgow Life, the charity which delivers culture and sport in Glasgow, have confirmed that 146 bands will compete.

The competition is the best place to experience live pipe-band music and the exceptional musical talent taking part. Thousands of pipers and drummers from around the world will battle it out to determine which band is the best of the best.

The Worlds, the first to go ahead since 2019, attracts international supporters to Glasgow. This year it will feature skilled and dedicated musicians from ten countries. That includes Austria, Australia, Canada, Ireland, Israel, and the USA. For the first time, there will also be a band from Argentina taking part.

Spectators can expect to see a range of performers of all ages and abilities, from Novice and Juvenile Grades to the gripping drama of the elite Grade 1 competition.

To find out more about tickets and how to attend, please visit: https://www.theworlds.co.uk/

Lord Provost Jacqueline McLaren of Glasgow City Council, and Chieftain of this year’s championships, said: “The World Pipe Band Championships are a wonderful spectacle that celebrates Scottish culture, and I am honoured to serve as Chieftain. The Worlds bring a carnival atmosphere to Glasgow Green and are an opportunity to witness history in the making. It’s an unforgettable occasion, and I would urge anyone who can attend to come along and experience the sights and sounds of the best pipe bands in the world.”

Kevin Reilly, Chairman of The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association, said: “We are delighted to be back at Glasgow Green for the pinnacle of competitive pipe band competition. Following a two-year absence, the pipers and drummers are raring to go and perform in front of thousands of supporters. The Worlds are a highly anticipated occasion, and it is exciting to see 146 bands taking part. It promises to be a memorable event for the bands and spectators who travel from far and wide to attend.”

Glasgow has a long-standing relationship with the Worlds and first hosted the event in 1948. The city has been the host every year since 1986. Inveraray and District Pipe Band were the World Champions in 2019.

Glasgow Life organises the World Pipe Band Championships on behalf of The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association.

The Worlds take place in Glasgow at the same time as Piping Live! which this year runs between Friday 6 August and Sunday 14 August 2022.

Both events are supported by Glasgow Life, Glasgow City Council and EventScotland, part of VisitScotland’s Events Directorate. For more information, please visit https://pipinglive.co.uk/