RNZPBA 2026 SUMMER SCHOOL
7th – 11th January 2026, St Andrew’s College, Christchurch
The annual RNZPBA Summer School is back for 2026 and includes some of the piping and drumming world’s biggest names. A full-on week of learning in small group and individual sessions, there is something for everyone at Summer School.
Callum Beaumont resides in Guardbridge, Scotland, with his wife, Eilidh. He began his piping journey at the age of seven under the guidance of Bert Smith, later receiving tuition from Tom Speirs and, more recently, Willie McCallum.
Since 2014, Callum has been a full-time instructor at Dollar Academy, where he has successfully led the Novice A Pipe Band to over 25 Major RSPBA titles.
Callum has also achieved considerable success as a solo piper, winning many prestigious awards, including two Gold Medals at Oban and Inverness, five Clasps at the Northern Meetings, the Silver Star, and most recently, his second Glenfiddich title in 2024.
Steven McWhirter is a native of Northern Ireland and now resides in Falkirk, Scotland with his wife Grace and children, Harry and Maggie. He is the Lead drummer of 2024 world pipe band champions, Inveraray and District pipe band and is twelve time, and current, Adult World Solo Drumming Championships.
Steven teaches drumming full time at The Edinburgh Academy and Falkirk Schools authority.
Steven began drumming in 1993 at the age of ten, with initial lessons from his father, Dessie. Steven joined his local Cullybackey Pipe Band in 1994, receiving snare instruction from Adrian Hoy until 2001. Steven played with the SFU Pipe Band from Vancouver, Canada, from 2002-2008, winning the World championships both as a band and drum corps. 2008 saw Steven assume the role of leading drummer of the Inveraray and District Pipe Band.
The band and drum corps have become a regular feature of the prize list, winning the World Championship titles in 2017, 2019 and 2024.
Where is the RNZPBA Summer School held?
The 2026 RNZPBA Summer School is being held at St Andrew’s College in Christchurch. Situated in the heart of New Zealand’s second biggest city, and easy transfers from Auckland, Wellington and Dunedin, St Andrew’s College and Christchurch offer a fantastic venue for the Summer School.
What will I learn?
Over the Summer School there will be group lessons, Masterclass workshops and more for students. Each student will be provided with a digital music pack so everyone will have new music to learn.
What will the Summer School cost?
The cost of the Summer School will vary depending on your registration type. Fees for the 2026 school will be available soon.
What will my timetable look like?
We are just finalising the exact timetable and will update this soon, but you can expect Masterclasses with the world’s best, practice time, masterclasses, workshops, new music, social activities and more.
Is it for me?
There is something for everyone at the RNZPBA Summer School. It doesn’t matter how long you have been learning, or what your ability level is, there are group sessions, individual lessons, Masterclasses and practice times for you to hone whatever skill or interest you have.
