Belfast TradFest Solo highland piping Competition

The Belfast TradFest Solo Piping Competition will see a selection of Ireland’s top Pipers perform a 6-8 minute Irish-inspired medley, showcasing their unique playing styles. Sit back, relax and take in some of the best Highland Piping to be heard across Ireland.

Get your tickets early to make sure you don’t miss out.

The competitor line-up includes:

Alan Glenholmes began his piping journey with Cullybackey Pipe Band, winning the Worlds in grade 2, progressing to grade 1. He is a previous member of St Laurence O’Toole Pipe Band and is the current Pipe Major of Irvine Memorial Pipe Band from County Fermanagh.

Alan MacPherson has competed for 10 years at the highest level of competitive piping in Grade 1; winning all of the major band titles. Alongside competitive piping, he has performed worldwide and on various BBC/TG4 features.

Alastair Donaghy, from Beragh, County Tyrone, has been a key member of the Field Marshal Montgomery Pipe Band since 2016, contributing to multiple World Championship victories. In 2025, he secured the A Grade overall title at the Ulster Solo Piping Championships. Alastair is celebrated for his expressive technique and deep commitment to traditional piping.

Kris Coyle is a bagpiper from Ballyclare, County Antrim. A member of the world-renowned Field Marshal Montgomery Pipe Band since 2005, he has achieved significant accolades, including being crowned Ulster Senior Piping Champion in 2014 and earning the title of Northern Ireland Piper of the Year in 2017.

Born in County Antrim, Owen McGregor grew up surrounded by Highland piping. He has travelled across Europe performing at concerts, festivals, tattoos, notably the Interceltique Festival de Lorient in Brittany, France. Owen is currently a member of grade 2, Glasgow Skye Association Pipe Band.

Reece Doherty began piping under tuition by his late grandfather Billy Doherty. Reece is a member of grade one band St Laurence O’Toole, Dublin. On the solo piping circuit, Reece has won 3 consecutive All Ireland MSR titles at U18, C2 and is the current C1 champion. Also Reece made the final of the 2024 Pipe Idol competition at Piping Live festival, Glasgow.

Venue information:

  • Access to the Solo Highland Piping Competition in The Deer’s Head is up two flights of stairs. Unfortunately there is no lift access, apologies for any inconvenience caused.

  • Full bar available

Venue Address:

1-3 Lower Garfield St

Belfast

BT1 1FP