THE recent death of Pipe Major John MacKenzie robs the piping world of a well known name.
A native of Campbeltown, Kintyre, John MacKenzie joined the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders as a young piper in 1938, and later became pipe-major of the 2nd Battalion and the 8th Battalion of that regiment.
After leaving the Army, he returned to Campbeltown for a spell, and among many other activities, became a founder member of the Kintyre Piping Society. He emigrated with his family to what was then Rhodesia in 1953, but after several years returned to Scotland and was appointed piping instructor at Queen Victoria School, Dunblane. He trained the band there to the very highest standard, and under his guidance they became World Juvenile Champions.
His own many successes in solo competition included the winning of the March Strathspey and Reel category for former winners at the Argyllshire Gathering. He excelled as a teacher, and some of his pupils themselves went on to become champion pipers. He produced his own book of pipe music, which proved very popular with pipers all over the world. His compositions were of the highest quality and became favourites not only with pipers but other musicians as well.
Later in life, he turned his talents to historical research and the composition of piobaireachd. He was much sought after as a judge, and was always prepared to give constructive comment and encouragement to younger players.
John MacKenzie was a popular and well respected figure, and his piping stories became part of piping folklore. He was awarded the BEM for his services to piping in the Army; this was presented to him by Prince Philip at Queen Victoria School on his final parade before retirement.
Very much a family man, he received great support from his wife Margaret, and daughters Elizabeth and Catherine, and was also very proud of his five grandchildren.
I consider myself fortunate to have had him as a teacher and a friend.
HUGH MacCALLUM
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