Spotlight on a Community Piper - Jack Lockhart

How long have you been a piper?

Well, I am thirteen years old now. I started on the chanter when I was 9. I got my first changer Christmas 2016 after my trip to Scotland to visit my family. I have been on the pipes since March 2018. So two and a half years on the pipes.

Who do you play the bagpipes with?

I play with the Almonte Legion Pipes and Drums Branch 240 and before the pandemic I was also with Thuirle Thairle Youth Pipe Band in Kanata. I also play for my sister who is a highland dancer with the Rosemary Breman School of Dancing.

What tartan do you wear?

I wear the Ramsay tartan when playing. But my family tartans are the Lockhart and Davidson.

What is your favourite song to play?

Oh gosh. It’s a very difficult question. Mari’s Wedding is one of my favourites and for fun I like playing Thunderstruck.

Are you playing any shows soon?

Until recently I was playing with the COVID Pipers in Almonte. This summer I had my first three paid gigs. My upcoming gig is playing for a prerecorded Remembrance Day service for Almonte United Church.

What’s your favourite thing about playing the bagpipes?

The amount of noise they make. I practice in my bedroom and I love seeing people’s reactions as they walk by.

Tell us something that might surprise us about you.

I have been acting with The Mississippi Mudds, a community theatre group in Carleton Place since I was seven.

Who is your mentor?

Randy Waugh and Jenny Putinski. They are both real fun and they do a great job guiding me and helping me become a better piper.