Cadet Matthew Hamilton Awarded Pipe Majors Award for Most Outstanding Bagpiper

For his hard work mastering the basics of piping in MMA’s new bagpipe program, Cadet Matthew Hamilton, a freshman from Edmond, Oklahoma, has been awarded the Pipe Majors Award for Most Outstanding Bagpiper. To signify his accomplishments, he will receive a small pewter bagpipe pin to wear on his uniform.  

During their first semester of bagpiping at MMA, cadets who participated in the introductory program learned the foundational skills of bagpiping, including over 50 finger exercises that require the utmost dexterity and discipline.  

In addition to playing the practice chanter – the bagpipe practice instrument – cadets were also given lessons on the rich military history and significance of bagpiping, different genres of bagpiping, bagpipe theory, staff notation and time signatures.  

The program is taught by Pipe Major Brian Donaldson, who brings a wealth of experience and accolades to MMA. His experience piping begins as a young child, enriched by years in his military career with the Scots Guards, and even more matured as an instructor for St. Johns Northwestern Military Academy in Wisconsin. With his refined skill, patience and discipline, Donaldson is both prepared and qualified to pass his wisdom to cadets in the bagpipe program.  

Click here to learn more about the bagpipe program.  

Click here to learn more about Pipe Major Donaldson.