Piping and Drumming Qualifications Board (PDQB)

Seven Certificates of Piping ability (directly compatible with the original Institute of Piping Certificates), four Certificates of Pipe Band Drumming ability, three Certificates in Pipe Band Studies and two Certificates for teachers of Piping/Drumming are available.

The organisations represented on the Piping and Drumming Qualifications Board (PDQB) are:

The first four organisations named above make up the Institute of Piping whose piping certificates are still recognised by the PDQB. Tests for all Certificates (less the additional Performers’ Certificate) will consist in each case of a practical, oral, and written examinations. Candidates must obtain a pass in both the practical and written examinations before a Certificate can be awarded. The tests for the Performers’ Certificate will consist of practical and oral examinations.

For a syllabus and more information see the College of Piping PDQB web page. Pipe Major Colin Opie has an arrangement with the College of Piping over students wishing to take up to Level II. This enables students to be tested locally in Exeter, with a video being taken of the practical part of the exam. This is then sent to the College for an examiner to review and assess. The advantage of this is the low cost. These exams start at only £10 at the present time, but a flight to Scotland, with hotels etc. could cost you £100 - £150 or more. Students are encouraged to attend a College Spring, Summer or Winter School (a week's course) prior to taking the higher levels.