SOUND has a compelling effect in evoking memory and nostalgic association. Few audio combinations merge to create as much impact on the senses as those of a Highland games. As you walk onto the field, your ears are filled with announcements over the Tannoy, athletes grunting with exertion, the happy sounds of friends re-acquainting, commentators introducing the competitors, dogs barking and the cheers and clapping of a lively crowd. Underpinning all this is the constant skirl of the pipes emanating from a multitude of simultaneously occurring sources – soloists tuning, soloists competing, pipe bands tuning, pipe bands performing and the hardy provider of endless tunes for the Highland dancing. The overall effect is very powerful and hugely enjoyable.
Last weekend I was lucky to experience a double measure of this excitement from two of the most famous of such events, the Glenfinnan Gathering and the Crieff Highland Gathering.