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"The Gathering" |
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26 Feb 2008 Greetings, I would like to share with the members and committee of CJA some of the information I have regarding the event that is to occur in Edinburgh Scotland, 24-26 July 2009. The event is simply called "The Gathering". It is as I understand the first such event of this proportion in well over one hundred years. Clans are the primary focus of "The Gathering". Without Clan associations and Scottish Heritage Societies, The legacy of Scotland, it's heritage and culture would simply fade and vanish forever. There are over 500 Clan and Family associations registered, extending Scottish heritage to all corners of the Earth. To all these Clans and members, The Standing Council of Scottish Chiefs, have extended Welcomes and the call for this gathering in Edinburgh, with desires to meeting all, and desires for representation of all Clans. A major benefit of this gathering, will be to have the majority of Chiefs and Senior Clan figures in Edinburgh all at the same time. This will allow the first ever Clan Convention. The purpose is simply the discussion of the issues and roles of the Clan in the 21st century. (a questionnaire is to be mailed soon, to query the issues deemed appropriate for convention theme) The convention is slated for 24 July at a suitable location yet to be announced, seating will be limited and Clan Chiefs and Seniors are encouraged to notify council of planned attendance. Additional seating may become available. The Centerpiece of the Gathering will undoubtedly be the "Clan March". Not since 1822 and Sir Walter Scott's Royal Pageant has such an event occurred on Scottish Soil. The assembly of 8000 International Clans people will parade from "The Royal Palace" at Holyrood, along the historic "Edinburgh Royal Mile", to end at seats on the Esplanade of "Castle Rock", site of the famous "Tattoo", and, once there, Commencement of The spectacular and Historic Clan Pageant. Holyrood, a 650 acre, ancient volcanic wonderland, setting and backdrop to "Aurthur's Seat" and the "Salisbury Crags", will be the site of many of the planned events including, The Heavy Athletic Championships, such as the "Caber Tossing" and the "Hammer throw", "Piping competitions", and Highland Dance" displays. High quality Scottish crafts will be available as well as the Best of Traditional Scottish fare at the "Taste Experience". It was recently announced that His Royal Highness Prince Charles is to be "Patron" of the Gathering. His Royal Highness holds Scottish titles of "Duke of Rothesay", "Earl of Carrick", "Baron of Renfrow", "Lord of the Isles" and "Great Steward of Scotland". He is likely to oversee the weekends events at Holyrood and The Clan Pageant on the Esplanade of "Edinburgh Castle". As Duke of Rothesay and the Lord of the Isles, Prince Charles represents an old connection between the British Monarchy and the Clans of Scotland. The renaissance of the highland games and the Clan gatherings can largely be attributed to Queen Victoria's patronage and love for the Highlands and it's traditions. Currently the "Gathering" team is seeking Pipe Bands. This, for obvious reason, is an important role as a contributor of Scottish culture and history. "Inverclyde" will host the European Pipe Band championships on 25 July and surely will attract Scotland's most competitive Pipers. The Leading Bands will service the Clan Parade on the 26th. The director's of the Gathering are aware of the number of competitors and stressed the "Ceremonial" nature of this occasion, limits will have to be set: Dress, Drill and Ceremony will get 1st notice. Applications are available for bands interested in competing http://www.clangathering.org/take-part/content/pipers.html There will also be competition for Solo Pipers, likely to be managed through the National Piping Centre" Applications available online mid 2008. The Event Passport and "Pre-booking" forms are available as well as a plethora of insightful information and news at www.clangathering.org. With Kindness |
