Donald Macpherson (piper)

Donald Macpherson (1873-1953) was a highly regarded Scottish piper and bagpipe maker. Born in Sleat, Isle of Skye, he was a prominent figure in the piping world during the early 20th century. Macpherson's family had a long tradition of piping, and he was taught by his father, Angus Macpherson, himself a renowned piper.

Donald Macpherson excelled in both performance and instrument craftsmanship. He was a consistent prize winner at major Highland Games, including the Northern Meeting in Inverness and the Argyllshire Gathering in Oban. His playing was known for its precision, musicality, and powerful expression.

In addition to his performance career, Macpherson established himself as a skilled bagpipe maker. His pipes were highly sought after and are still considered to be of exceptional quality. He was known for his meticulous attention to detail and the rich, resonant tone of his instruments. Many prominent pipers played Macpherson's bagpipes.

Macpherson served as a pipe major in the British Army during both World War I and World War II. His contributions to piping, both as a performer and instrument maker, cemented his legacy as a significant figure in Scottish traditional music. He passed on his knowledge and skills to many students, ensuring the continuation of the Macpherson piping tradition. His compositions are still played and enjoyed by pipers worldwide.