Quote Originally Posted by OC Richard View Post
A piper performing at a funeral wearing a suit doesn't seem fitting to me.
Nor to me, but I acknowledge that may just be my mindset. I believe the GHB and the kilt remain linked in public performance. Not a rule but more of a convention that has evolved over time. Invariably I will be asked by somone requesting me to play at their event if I will be wearing the kilt, so I think that convention is present in the general psyche too.

I'm not sure if any of the pipers mentioned who find the kilt a hassle are looking to dump band uniforms completely. Most of their complaints seem to be about solo competitions, including competitions not associated with larger Highland Games. Admittedly, many of these have little to no public attendance, beyond direct family and friends. However, I would find it sad indeed if things devolved to flip-flops, shorts, t-shirts and baseball caps as the uniform of the day. Even other instrumental competitions I'm aware of have some form of dress code. It used to be that dress and deportment were taken seriously in piping and drumming comps; don't know how much they count for any longer.