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 was established in 1978 by co-founders George Balderose (picture right) and James McIntosh, MBE, and is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) tax-exempt educational corporation. 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.