Sorry to inform you all that Robert Turner passed away this morning in New Zealand at the age of 75.
Robert was one of the major influential drummers of the 20th Century within the Pipe Band world.
He played in the 214 in the 60’s, seen here on the far right at the Highland Shield Competition at Kelvingrove Park in 1961……which of course they won!
After leaving the 214 Robert played in the Muirhead & Sons Pipe Band, winning the World Championships five times in a row. (from 1965-1969 inclusive)
He then went on to become Leading Drummer of British Caledonian Airways Pipe Band.
Thereafter Robert went to the Middle East to teach in the UAE and Oman. He then eventually emigrated to New Zealand, and had short stints playing in a couple of bands including New Zealand Police, and doing some judging.
On the 1st of January 2013 the first “Robert Turner Drumming Championship” was held in New Zealand and is now competed for annually at the Waipu Highland Games.
The organisers kept the name of the Championship a secret from Robert, until just before, as they knew he would have tried to change the name.
He greatfully accepted and presented the prizes.
Joe Noble would regularly meet up with ‘Bobby’ when he was out in New Zealand.
I was talking to Joe today and he is devastated at the news, ” I’m so glad I managed to speak to ‘Bobby’ on the 10th of October, the day before I headed out to judge the South American Championships”, Joe said.
On the 9th of October 1994 Robert was in attendance to play at the 214BB’s 70th Anniversary Parade at Scotstoun. He can be seen in this picture wearing a red tie holding his drumsticks.
and also can be seen here in the 70th Anniversary video that has been added to Media Video Files clip 3.
The Ex Members Association would like to extend their condolences to Robert’s wife Marion and the rest of the family at this sad time.
We will keep you informed of any further news on this.
