Carnoustie Piper In Tartan Week to Remember

From Piping for the Queen to performing between the fountains at the World Trade Center Memorial.

Carnoustie piper Craig Weir is back in Scotland after a week in New York playing and chatting with the likes of Billy Connolly and Alan Cumming at the city's Tartan week.

The 21-year-old was also teaching schools a bit about Scottish culture.

Speaking about the visit, Craig said:

“My 9/11 Memorial performance was very emotional. Only one artist each month gets to play there for 15 minutes and it was a powerful thing standing between the fountains in the World Peace Tartan in front of the families of some of the victims of the atrocity and Scottish Government Minister Keith Brown MSP.

“It was the most emotional moment I’ve had playing and I’ll never forget it.

“It was also great to debut my piece The Immigrants’ Lament , commissioned by the Clan Currie Society, on Ellis Island on Tartan Day with the stunning Manhattan skyline as the backdrop.

“This trip has been very special. I’ve met so many amazing people and played at so many incredible events.

“It’s been great to see how people in New York are engaging with Scottish culture. There were thousands and thousands who turned out for the Tartan Day Parade. Hopefully that will continue to grow.

“I hope I’ve managed to introduce new people to our national instrument. I’ve enjoyed the whole experience and hope to come back to perform here again.”

Asked about his highlights of the week, he said: “There are too many highlights to mention. US TV legend Jimmy Fallon showing up and giving an impromptu performance at the Highland Divas concert was pretty special.”