Media Release

Tuesday 1st March 2011

Pipe Bands Hold Benefit Concert for Christchurch Earthquake Appeal

Pipers and Drummers from around New Zealand are using their musical talents to benefit those in need after last Tuesday’s earthquake in Christchurch.

Due to the recent tragedy which has affected many in the Canterbury region, the Royal New Zealand Pipe Band Association have cancelled the New Zealand and South Pacific Pipe Band Championships which were due to be held in Timaru this coming weekend. Around 1500 bandspeople were set to compete in the Championships, which are the highlight of the pipe band calendar in New Zealand.

With the news of the cancellation, bands from the Wellington area (City of Wellington, Red Hackle, Paraparaumu and Scots College), combined with the Manawatu Scottish Pipe Band and reigning New Zealand champions, the Auckland & District Pipe Band, have rallied together to organise a fundraising concert for the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal to be held in the Capital this Saturday.

The concert, 100 Pipers, will be an evening of pipe band music, showcasing the combined talents of six bands who are on the top of their game after months of preparation for the Championships. Special guests are set to make an appearance and the concert promises to have something for everyone, including a performance of Amazing Grace as the finale and a lament by a solo piper as a mark of respect to those who have lost their lives in Christchurch.

The Wellington City Council has come on board, along with Wellington Venues in donating the venue, the Michael Fowler Centre, free of charge and Jetstar have assisted in bringing Auckland and District to Wellington to participate in the concert.

100 Pipers takes place at 7.00pm this Saturday, 5th March at the Michael Fowler Centre, Wellington. Tickets are $15 per person or a $40 for a family (2 adults, 2 children) and are available from Ticketek, as well as on the door. Donations will also be taken on the night by the Red Cross.

ENDS

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