Both the grade 3 MacMillan Pipe Band and the grade 4 MacMillan-Birtles Memorial Pipe Band participated in the Celtic Classic this weekend in Bethlehem, PA. This massive three-day festival with free admission has been a staple in the grade 3 band’s calendar for many years, and this year the format was altered to include a grade 4 band contest as well, allowing both bands to compete.

MacMillan-Birtles performed on Saturday, playing in a parade through the streets of Bethlehem and massed bands before heading into the competition circle. The contest featured both a medley selection and quick march set. The band played well in both contests and placed fifth overall in a field of six strong bands. Their next competition will be October 29 at the Meadow Highland Games and Celtic Festival in Doswell, VA.

MacMillan played on Sunday, finishing their competition season by playing in both the MSR (March,Strathspey and Reel) and medley competitions. Strong performances in both events earned them a third place finish overall out of six bands, and they now head into the off season with plans for an all-new medley for 2012.