Two young members of Vernon-based Scottish pipe bands have danced and drummed their way to high achievements.
Skyler Lavoie, 11, won five gold medals at the 13th-annnual Kamloops Highland Dance Games on July 13. A member of the Aviemore Highland Dance Studio, Lavoie’s performance earned her the award for top spot in the beginner category.
Meanwhile Andrew Cussveller, 16, spent a week at the Piping Hot Summer Drummer band on Silver Star Mountain from July 14-19, playing well enough to snare a half-scholarship for next year’s camp.
Both Lavoie and Cussveller have been supported with scholarships by North Okanagan Pipes and Drums, a local band founded in 2012 whose music can often be heard at Remembrance Day services and community events around the Okanagan.
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Young people with an interest in learning pipes and drums can contact Pipe Major Don McLeod of North Okanagan Pipes and Drums at 250-260-1001, or visit www.pipesndrums.ca.
