Willie McCallum, a Campbelltown native, has been steeped in Scottish traditional music since childhood. Growing up in a piping family, he absorbed tunes from an early age. McCallum started chanter lessons at eight with his father and uncle Ronald, his main teacher for 30 years. He was also during this time, taught Piobaireachd by his uncle Hugh, himself a phenomenal champion piper. Musical inspirations included P/M Ronald McCallum, Inveraray (his second cousin), John Burgess, Donald MacLeod, Iain MacFadyen and Donald MacPherson. The Edinburgh Police Pipe Band under Iain MacLeod also was a great inspiration.
After honing his skills through years of diligent practice and winning many prizes in junior piping competitions, McCallum emerged onto the professional piping scene, winning top prizes at prestigious events. A breakthrough moment came when McCallum won his first piobaireachd competition, besting revered musicians of the day. Other early career highlights were capturing the Gold Medal at Inverness in 1989 and the Glenfiddich Championship in 1990.
Over his prolific performing career, McCallum has collaborated with leading artists like Roddy MacLeod, forging lasting musical bonds. Competitively, McCallum is proudest of his nine Glenfiddich Championship wins. Another passion is teaching, and he takes pride in the many students he has mentored to competitive success in the major events.
McCallum believes Scottish music is uniquely rooted in the people, environment and social fabric where traditional instruments originated. He has witnessed the genre blossom through the rise in the depth of piping tuition worldwide, and folk bands showcasing Scotland’s piping talent. Though competitive piping remains McCallum’s focus, he appreciates how contemporary artists are evolving the tradition.
Willie McCallum is an icon with over six decades immersed in Scotland’s piping heritage and continues passing on his wisdom so new generations can carry on this cherished musical legacy.