A perennial favourite at Celtic Colours, the Pipers’ Céilidh never fails to thrill pipes enthusiasts of all description. This afternoon’s concert takes place at Colaisde na Gàidhlig [the Gaelic College] in beautiful St. Ann’s. The only institution of its kind in North America, piping has been taught at the College for many years, making it an obvious choice to host this very popular concert. This year’s céilidh features three pipers who share a deep interest in the particular style of piping that came over to Cape Breton Island with the earliest Scottish immigrants—a more traditional style of piping that was all but lost in Scotland in the intervening years. Glace Bay native Barry Shears is an acknowledged expert on the history of traditional piping in Nova Scotia and its intrinsic connection to the Gaelic language, music, and culture of the province. Keith MacDonald grew up with piping all around him, taking lessons at Colaisde na Gàidhlig [the Gaelic College], and eventually joining the group Nuallan who focused on playing in the old, Cape Breton style. Ian McKinnon is an award-winning piper who has performed around the world, ranging from solo to symphonic work and as a co-founder of the Celtic rock band, Rawlins Cross. Each of today’s performers will be accompanied by the ever-versatile Troy MacGillivray.