Biography

Piping has been in Angus Nicolson’s family for generations. Although no-one in the long line of Nicolson pipers had the opportunity to develop their musical talents to a professional level, until now.

From the beautiful Isle of Skye, Angus was a pupil of the well-respected teacher of piping, Iain MacFadyen.
Angus has won many prizes at some of the most prestigious piping competitions in Scotland, including the Northern Meeting and the MacGregor Memorial Competition.

He has shown his versatility by being equally successful in the light music categories as well as the Piobaireachd categories, regarded as the classical music of the pipes.

Currently at Benbecula College, Angus has his sights set on studying Scottish Music at the RSAMD, Glasgow before going on to a solo career as a piper.

How the Award Helped

Angus received a Daughter of Dewar Award to buy a set of handmade Fred Morrison reelpipes.

Since the Award

Before making the purchase, Angus was able to try Fred’s own set of reelpipes. Since he got his own set, his career has gone from strength to strength. His many performances include a gig at Celtic Connections with fellow Award winner, Sarah Naylor.

Angus writes that the instrument ‘is a joy to play, sounds excellent and is as reliable as anyone could want.’ Owning such a top-quality instrument inspires him to practise even more.