The piping and drumming school was started in 1970 by John MacFadyen of Glasgow, Scotland, and Pipe Major Sandy Jones and offers instruction to all levels of players, beginner to advanced. The school is located at The Valle Crucis Conference Center in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.
The mission of the Valle Crucis Conference Center is hospitality, which is evident in the friendly environment. Housing is dormitory-style in rustic, historic buildings. Three hearty meals are served daily and there is ample room on the Center's grounds to practice your instruments, immerse yourself in piping and drumming for the week, socialize, and enjoy the surrounding mountains.
For years, our students have wished for a winter gathering - and we’re excited to make that a reality!
We are thrilled to share plans for The Hogmanay Piping Sessions, December 28, 2025 – January 2, 2026, in beautiful Valle Crucis, North Carolina. Imagine snow-dusted mountains, evenings by a crackling fire in the Inn, and the sound of pipes carrying into the night, complete with a special Hogmanay celebration to welcome the New Year. The format will be similar to our summer offerings.
REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN!
NAAPD is a residential school and we request that you perform a home Covid test the day before you travel to Valle Crucis. We appreciate your support with this for everyone’s safety. Please do not attend if you are ill; we can usually change weeks if necessary.
