The air crackled with anticipation in Hamilton’s newly renovated TD Coliseum. But this wasn’t just another concert; it was a homecoming of sorts, a musical bridge spanning continents and generations, all thanks to a legend named Paul McCartney.
As the final notes of “Mull of Kintyre” faded, a wave of emotion washed over the stage. The Paris Port Dover Pipe Band, having just finished their performance, began to walk off, but the moment wasn’t over. Pipe Major Gord Black noticed a Scottish guitar handler, tears welling in his eyes, struggling to lift McCartney’s guitar.
It was a profoundly moving experience for the band, many fighting back their own tears. McCartney, acknowledging the deep connection, spoke of his crew members from Scotland, visibly touched by the performance. He understood the weight of the music, the echoes of a shared heritage.
McCartney famously reserves “Mull of Kintyre” for performances in Commonwealth countries, a song imbued with a particular resonance for those with roots in those lands. But for Black, this night held an even deeper significance – a chance to showcase a new generation of talent.
He had brought a group of young pipers and drummers – some barely teenagers – onto the stage, a bold move that paid off spectacularly. “This was a huge challenge, and they all came through in a big way,” Black recalled, his voice filled with pride.
The validation wasn’t just from the roaring applause of the packed arena, but from McCartney himself. He met each young performer’s gaze, a silent acknowledgment of their skill and courage. It was a moment none of them would ever forget.
The stage held 27 pipers and drummers alongside McCartney and his seasoned band – Wix Wickens, Rusty Anderson, Brian Ray, Abe Laboriel Jr., and the Hot City Horns. But Black insisted on highlighting the young musicians who had risen to the occasion.
These weren’t children who grew up with the Beatles or Wings; for some, even their parents weren’t yet born during that era. Yet, Ben Lees (16), Rowan Paniccia (19), Thelonious Tracy (14), Haroon Awan (14), Maya Croome (12), and Iona Lees (12) delivered flawless performances.
“They know the music and they knew this was big,” Black said, beaming. “And they all did so great. I am so proud of all of them.” His dedication to nurturing young talent, a passion that began 25 years ago when he moved to Canada from Scotland, had culminated in this extraordinary moment.
McCartney and his band were incredibly supportive, even ensuring a friend of the band had a prime spot for photos and video. The opportunity arose just a month prior, an email from McCartney’s musical director extending the invitation. Weeks of secret rehearsals followed.
They piped McCartney into the arena with “Scotland the Brave,” a gesture that visibly moved him. He touched his hand to his heart, a silent expression of gratitude. The sound check beforehand eased the young musicians’ nerves, preparing them for the electrifying encore of “Mull of Kintyre.”
“Playing with Sir Paul is always a thrill,” Black admitted. This wasn’t their first time – they’d shared the stage with him in 2010 and 2015 – but this performance, with its youthful energy, felt particularly special. The energy of thousands of fans was both exhilarating and humbling.
The tribute felt particularly fitting, given Hamilton’s own Scottish roots. The city was named after George Hamilton, a founder whose parents emigrated from Scotland in the 18th century. It was a full-circle moment, a celebration of heritage and musical brilliance.
Twelve-year-old Iona Lees, reflecting on the experience, described McCartney as a “talented singer, especially at that age.” Maya Croome, also 12, was struck by his kindness and humor, finding him “a lot sweeter than I thought he was going to be.”
Fifteen-year-old Haroon Awan admitted to initial stress, but found reassurance in rehearsals and McCartney’s encouragement. “Paul is very nice and he’s pretty funny, too,” he shared. The young musicians had not only met their idol, but had also earned his respect.
That night in Hamilton, Paul McCartney and the Paris Port Dover Pipe Band didn’t just put on a concert; they wove a tapestry of music, history, and youthful promise. It was a night that resonated with the soul, a testament to the enduring power of music to connect us all.
