Formed in 1916, the band is one of the oldest functioning pipe bands in the US. The ‘Kilties’ have performed in concert, on parade and in competition throughout the US, Canada and Scotland. The band is famous for being the first pipe band in the United States to rise to international prominence at the Grade 1 level. In 1964, Worcester Kiltie became the first band from the United States to compete at the World Championships, held in June in Glasgow. Under the leadership of Pipe Major James Kerr (1932-2012) the band won no less than 5 North American Championships in Grade 1 and in 1969 Worcester took a first prize at the Lesmahagow Highland Games against tough competition from top Scottish bands, including Shotts & Dykehead and Glasgow Police, the reigning World Champions. It was the first time that a pipe band from the United States won a competition in Scotland. Worcester also gained at least one prize at the World Championships under Kerr’s direction.
