Richard Parkes MBE’s journey in pipe band music began in 1969 when he joined Raffrey Pipe Band in Northern Ireland, following in the footsteps of his two uncles. This was just the beginning of an extraordinary career that would reshape the pipe band landscape. In 1970, Raffrey merged with the Field Marshal Montgomery Pipe Band (FMM), marking the start of Richard’s remarkable five-decade association with one of the world’s most successful pipe bands.
Taking up the Pipe Major’s role in 1981, Richard’s early musical education came from Sandy Cummings, William Maxwell, and John Garrett. Later, his playing style was significantly influenced by P/M James Banks of the Scots Guards. However, it was Ian McLellan who particularly inspired his approach as a Pipe Major.
Under Richard’s leadership, FMM reached Grade 1 in 1985, and their first All-Ireland championship victory in this grade came in 1989. These early successes were just a glimpse of what was to come. Over his 43-year tenure as Pipe Major, which concluded in 2024, Richard led the band to an unprecedented string of victories: 13 World Championships (a record for a Pipe Major), 17 Scottish Championships, 13 European Championships, and numerous other major titles including 27 All-Ireland Championships.
His contributions to piping have earned him significant recognition. In 2004, he was awarded an MBE for his services to pipe band music, and in 2019, both Queen’s University and Ulster University honored him with honorary PhDs.
Richard’s advice to aspiring musicians is refreshingly straightforward: find a qualified teacher to ensure proper foundational training, draw inspiration from the best in the field, and above all, enjoy the music. His practical approach and dedication to excellence have inspired countless musicians across generations.
For Richard, his induction into the Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame represents a profound honour, placing him alongside the greats of pipe band and traditional music. His legacy, marked by an unmatched competitive record and dedication to musical excellence, has left an indelible mark on the pipe band world.
Throughout his career, Richard has embodied the values of dedication, excellence, and respect for tradition while continuously pushing the boundaries of pipe band music. His retirement in 2024 marked the end of an era, but his influence on the pipe band world continues to resonate.