Welcome to the Rules and Constitution of the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association. This document has been updated to include changes made at the Annual General Meeting in 2009.

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SECTION ONE
CONSTITUTION
TITLE

The Association shall be called:

"THE ROYAL SCOTTISH PIPE BAND ASSOCIATION"

1.0  Objects
1.1 The Association shall have for its objects:

1.2 To promote and encourage the culture and advancement of Pipe Band Music internationally, and to sponsor a Pipe Band College.

1.3 To create and maintain a bond of Fellowship with all Pipe Band Personnel throughout the world. The enjoyment of the rights and freedoms set forth in this Constitution and Rules shall be secured without discrimination on any ground such as sex, race, colour language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, association with a national minority, property, birth or other status. (AGM 2000)

1.4 To devise and operate a proper system of Pipe Band Contest Rules.

1.5 To organise and operate the World, European, British, Scottish, and all Major Championships held within the United Kingdom.

1.5.1 In the event of the Association winding up any funds shall be disposed of charitably. (AGM 2000)

Annual General Meetings
1.6 The Annual General Meeting of the Association shall be held on the second Saturday of March each year.

1.7 The National Council may summon a Special General Meeting at any time they consider necessary or in compliance with a requisition stating the objects of the meeting and signed by at least, sixty Bands from a minimum of six branches.

Associate Membership
1.8 Any individual, whether a player or non-player, and whether or not a   member of a member Band, who subscribes fully to the Objects, Constitution and Rules of the Association shall be eligible to apply for admission to Associate Membership of the Association.

1.9 Application for admission to Associate Membership shall be made in such form as the National Council may from time to time prescribe.

1.10 Admission to Associate Membership shall be at the discretion of the National Council who may approve or decline to approve any application for admission.

1.11 An Associate Member may attend all General Meetings of the Association, but have no vote, and shall be permitted to speak only at the discretion of the Chairman of the meeting.

1.12 All Associate Members shall be obliged to pay an annual subscription at the rate determined from time to time by the Annual General Meeting of the Association.

1.13 The rules as to payment, arrears, lapsing and cesser of membership which apply to Band Membership Fees and membership of Bands shall apply * mutatis mutandis to annual subscriptions and membership of Associate Members.

 * mutatis mutandis - the necessary changes having been made

Affiliated Associations
1.14 Any Pipe Band Association out with the United Kingdom which subscribes fully to the Objects, Constitution and Rules of the Association shall be eligible to apply for affiliation to the Association.

1.15 Application for affiliation shall be made in such form as the National Council may from time to time prescribe.

1.16 Affiliation to The Association shall be at the discretion of the National Council, who may approve or decline to approve any application for affiliation.

1.17 All Affiliated Associations shall be obliged to pay (in Sterling free of any bank charges or other deductions) an annual Affiliated Fee of an amount equal to the Band Membership fee applicable at that time.

1.18 The rules as to payment, arrears, lapsing and cesser of membership which apply to Band membership fees and membership of Bands shall apply mutatis mutandis to annual Affiliation Fees and affiliation of Affiliated Associations, save that in addition no Band which is a member of an Affiliated Association shall be eligible to participate in any activity, contest or competition hereafter mentioned unless such Band is also a member of the Association and not itself in arrears.

1.19 No Band which has its base within the area covered by an Affiliated Association shall be admitted to membership of the Association unless it is also a member of the Affiliated Association, and any Band so admitted to membership of the Association which ceases also to be a member of such Affiliated Association (other than upon the winding up or disbandment of such Affiliated Association) shall cease * ipso facto to be a member of the Association, and a Certificate to the effect that a Band has ceased to be a member of such Affiliated Association signed by duly authorised Official thereof shall be conclusive in a question with the Association.

1.20 A Band which is a member of an Affiliated Association need not also be a member of the Association to be eligible to take part in any activity, contest or competition organised or sponsored by the Association or held under its aegis.

1.21 All Bands from Affiliated Associations/Societies shall be obliged to pay (in Sterling) free from bank charges and other deductions an amount equal to 50% (fifty per cent) of the United Kingdom Annual Membership fee for the year of competing within the United Kingdom.

 * ipso facto - by that very fact or act

1.22 Promoters of Pipe Band contests and competitions within an Affiliated Association/Society requiring the services of Adjudicators/Officials from the R.S.P.B.A. membership shall be obliged to make application through the Chief Executive.

1.23 No Affiliated Association, or Band which is a member of such Affiliated Associations but not also a member of the Association, shall be entitled to vote at any General Meeting of the Association

Voting and Representation
1.24 Each Band shall be entitled to send TWO representatives to Annual or Special General Meetings. 

1.25 All representatives must produce proof of membership in order to obtain a voting card.

1.26 The voting powers of all Bands shall be equal - ONE BAND ONE VOTE - all changes to the Constitution and Rules shall be by two-thirds majority of the Bands present. 

1.27 Voting shall be by a show of cards.

1.28 When deemed desirable by the meeting, voting shall be by ballot.

1.29 In the event of equality of any vote the Chairman of the meeting shall have a casting vote.

1.30 Officials and National Council Members of the Association shall not be entitled to a deliberate vote.

1.31 No Member of the National Council will be permitted to represent a Band at Annual or Special General Meetings.

Nominations and Notices of Motion
1.32 All nominations for the National Council and Music Board and proposed alterations to he Constitution and Rules, including all motions involving Finance must come through the Branches or the National Council and must be intimated in writing to the Chief Executive not less than six weeks before the date of the Annual General Meeting.

1.33 In the event of any Branch failing to nominate its proper quota of representatives it shall be the duty of the meeting to make the requisite decisions.

1.34 Any notices of motion or proposed alterations to the Constitution and Rules must clearly state section number, rule number, line number and clearly define the intention of the motion or alteration, whether by insertion, deletion, addition or substitution failing which it shall not be included in the Agenda for the Annual General Meeting.

Procedure shall be governed by the following

Standing Orders
1.35 The mover of the motion shall have the right to speak for 5 minutes in support thereof.

1.36 The same right will be given to the mover of an amendment. 

1.37 In no case will the mover of either a motion or an amendment be allowed to speak during the discussion except to reply to a point of order or on the request of the Chairman of the meeting to elucidate any point already referred to in the original motion or amendment.

1.38 The seconder of a motion or amendment shall not be allowed to take any further part in the discussion.

1.39 At the close of the debate the mover of the amendment will be allowed 5 minutes to reply, followed by the mover of the motion, who will also be allowed 5 minutes to reply.

1.40 The reply in each case must be confined strictly to the subject matter of the debate and on no account will any new material be introduced.

1.41 Should the mover of a motion take part in the debate subsequent to his/her moving of the motion, his/her action shall automatically close the debate, and the question shall then be put to the Meeting.

1.42 All other speakers taking part in the debate shall be allowed 5 minutes each and shall only be allowed to speak a second time during the debate on the authority of the Chairman of the meeting.

1.43 Any Office-Bearer, Chief Executive or member of the National Council can speak only to defend the Status Quo or in support of a National Councils view on any motion submitted to the Annual General Meeting.

1.44 Any motion or amendment which has not been seconded shall not be discussed or put to Meeting.

1.45 Any member on rising to speak shall address the chairman of the meeting state the name of the band he/she represents and in the case of a notice of motion, shall state the Branch he/she represents. (AGM 2009)

1.46 In addition, any person moving a motion or amendment shall read, or clearly state, the motion or amendment. Thus read, or stated, it shall not be varied.

1.47 To suspend any one or more of the Standing Orders the proposer must clearly state the number, or numbers of the Standing Orders he/she wishes to have suspended.

1.48 If the suspension is not seconded it shall not be put. When, or if, the suspension is seconded, the motion shall be put without further discussion. 

1.49 To suspend any one or more of the Standing Orders a majority vote of not less than two-thirds of the Bands present will be necessary.

1.50 The Chairman of the Meeting shall have the powers to close or adjourn the meeting after the Standing Orders have been read. Likewise he/she shall the power to interpret any question of doubt from no matter what source.

1.51 (This rule was deleted at the 2009 AGM)

1.52 If the Chairman of the meeting should rise at any point during the course of a debate, the member then addressing the Meeting shall immediately resume his/her seat and shall not take further part in the debate except on the instructions of the Chairman of the Meeting.

1.53 All members shall acquaint themselves with the Standing Orders and undertake to assist the Chairman of the meeting in ensuring that they are rigidly enforced.

Audit
1.54 The auditing of all books and accounts, and the preparation of the Annual Financial Statement to be submitted to the Bands, shall be undertaken by a qualified Chartered Accountant who shall be appointed by the National Council.

1.55 The Association financial year shall end on 31st December.

Management - National Council
1.56 The Management of The Association is vested in a National Council which will comprise:

National Council
1.57 President

1.58 Chairman

1.59 Vice-Chairman

1.60 Branch Representatives who must be registered with a Band, but need not be a playing member.

1.61 Chief Executive (AGM 2003).

Executive Committee
1.62 President

1.63 Chairman

1.64 Vice-Chairman

1.65 Chief Executive

1.66 Convener of Finance, Music Board, Marketing and Media (AGM 2003), Standing Orders and Steering Committees and two members of the National Council. Convenors shall be appointed for 3 years, but approved annually by the National Council. (AGM 2004).

The Executive Committee shall be empowered to carry out all necessary business.  (AGM 2004).

Committee Representation: - On the National Council.
1.67 Music Board Representative.

1.68 Adjudicators Panel Representative.

1.69 Representatives at 1.67 and 1.68 will make reports to the National Council as and when required.

Election: -
1.70 The President shall be elected by the National Council.

1.71 The members at 1.58, 1.59 and 1.60 shall be elected at the Annual General Meeting.

Branch Representatives
1.72 Members at 1.60 shall be nominated by the Branch concerned.

1.73 Branches with 12 to 25 Bands inclusive in membership - One Representative, 26 or more - Two Representatives. 

1.74 Branches with less than 12 Bands in membership shall not be entitled to representation on the National Council.

Period of Service
1.75 All members shall normally serve for a period of three years.

1.76 Approximately one third of the members shall retire annually, but may offer themselves for re-election.

1.77 Branches will have the right to change their National Council Representative at the Branch Annual General Meeting, within the three year period.

Voting at National Council
1.78 All members at 1.58, 1.59 and 1.60 shall have a deliberate vote and in addition the Chairman of the meeting shall have a casting vote.

Quorum
1.79 One third of the National Council shall form a quorum.

Honorary Appointments and Awards
1.80 Honorary President and Honorary Vice President appointments may be made by the National Council, subject to approval at the AGM.

1.80.1 Honorary Life Membership, Meritorious and Long Service Awards may be granted by the National Council.

Pipe Band College
1.81 The Association shall sponsor, support and maintain its own Pipe Band College, within the Music Board and issue certificates in accordance with its instructional courses.

Observers
1.81.1 Full meetings of the National Council and the Music Board will be open for attendance to Association Members as observers to a maximum of two per Branch and Affiliated Association. Attendance requires Branch and Affiliated Association approval and prior notification to the Chief Executive. (AGM 2009)

1.81.2 (This rule was deleted at the 2009 AGM)

Management Staff
1.82 The National Council shall appoint a full time Chief Executive and full / part time Headquarters staff as necessary. 

1.83 The Chairman shall be responsible for all details of employment.

1.83.1 In the event of a grievance by any member of the office staff the grievance should be presented to the Chief Executive. If the grievance is not resolved then it can be taken to the Complaints Committee as appointed by the National Council. (AGM 2000)

Duties of Office Bearers
1.84 President: - In his/her presence at meetings, he/she shall preside when invited to do so by the Chairman.

1.85 Chairman: - The Chairman or his/her Deputy shall preside at all meetings and shall be Ex-Officio on all committees.

1.86 Vice-Chairman:  - The Vice-Chairman shall deputise for the Chairman.

1.87 Chief Executive: - He/she shall be responsible for all the general administration of The Association including all financial management as determined by the National Council.  He/she shall be “ex-officio”on all committees

1.88 Minute Secretary: - The Minute Secretary shall be appointed by the National Council, and keep a roll of attendance at National Council, Executive Committee and Annual General Meetings and record all proceedings.

1.89 Assistant Treasurer: - The Hon Assistant Treasurer shall be appointed by the National Council and shall assist the Chief Executive on financial matters when required.

Power of National Council
Infringements of Objects, Constitution and Rules
1.90 The National Council shall have the power to uphold the Objects, Constitution and Rules of the Association and to require compliance therewith by member Bands, Associate Members, Affiliated Associations and their Member Bands, by the Office-Bearers and the Officials of the Association, by the officials of any Branch of the Association (Branch Officials), and by registered members of member Bands or of Bands belonging to Affiliated Associations, and to issue such directives in that connection as to the National Council seems appropriate.

1.91 In addition, the National Council may make such decisions as in their opinion are necessary:
  a) for the proper conduct of the affairs of The Association;
  b) for any of its activities, meetings, contests and competitions;
  c) to secure the best interests of The Association.

1.92 Any Member Band, Associate Member of Affiliated Association failing to comply with any such directive or decision of the National Council may be suspended from membership of or affiliation to the Association for such period or periods (whether definitive or indefinitive) as the National Council may determine.

1.93 Any Office-Bearer or Official of the Association failing to comply with any such directive or decision may likewise be suspended from office by the National Council who may appoint some other person or persons to discharge the duties of the office in question during the period or periods of such suspension.

1.94 Any registered member or Official of a member Band or of a Band belonging to an Affiliated Association and any Branch Official failing to comply with any such directive or decision may be suspended from registration or recognition for such a period or periods (whether definitive or indefinitive) as the National Council may determine.

1.95 All directives, decisions and determinations of the National Council shall be final and binding upon the parties concerned and shall not be subject to review, nor shall the National Council be obliged to give reasons for their directives, decisions or determinations.

Sub Committees
1.96 Sub-Committees shall be formed as and when required by the National Council. 

1.97 Sub-Committees may co-opt members for a period of time as determined by the National Council.

1.98 All Sub-Committee decisions and recommendations must be referred to the National Council for confirmation and, if unacceptable, may be returned to the respective Committee for further consideration.

1.99 It shall be deemed a breach of privilege for any Sub-Committee member to divulge Committee decisions or recommendations prior to approval of the National Council.

Finance, Insurance and Maintenance
1.100 The Finance, Insurance and Maintenance Committee shall comprise of Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Chief Executive, Hon. Assistant Treasurer, and two members of the National Council.

1.101 A member of the committee as approved by the National Council shall act as the Convener.

1.102 In addition the Convener may co-opt one additional member with suitable qualifications subject to the approval of the National Council. 

1.103 The Convener, Chief Executive and any two members shall form a quorum.

1.104 It shall meet at intervals of not more than two months and it shall set up the accountancy system of the Association, regulate the cash in hand to be held by the Chief Executive at any one time and ensure that no withdrawals are made from the bank except on the signed authority of the Chief Executive or Assistant Treasurer and that of the Chairman, Vice-Chairman or Finance Convener.

1.105 It shall recommend to the National Council the investment and distribution of all finances. 

1.106 It shall also ensure that the Chief Executive, Hon. Assistant Treasurer and all funds be indemnified and all properties of the Association fully insured and maintained.

Standing Orders and Steering Committee
1.107 To be constituted from the National Council (with powers to co-opt). The National Council shall appoint a Convener.

1.108 It shall act in an advisory capacity to the National Council and Chairman regarding the interpretation of the Constitution and Rules of the Association and revision thereof when necessary.

1.109 It shall also act in an advisory capacity regarding the future structure of the Association.

The Music Board
1.110 The Music Board shall be responsible to the National Council for all matters and complaints pertaining to Piping and Drumming Education and Certification, Music, Grading, Competition Format, Discipline, Dress and Deportment of Band Members. (AGM 2004).

1.111 To form the Board each Branch shall be entitled to nominate one RSPBA or PDQB Certificated Piper and one RSPBA or PDQB Certificated Drummer, one of whom shall be nominated as Convener subject to approval of National Council.

1.112 The nominated Convenor, subject to approval of National Council, must be an elected Branch Member. All members will serve for a period of time from one to three years as per the Constitution of the Branch they represent. (AGM 2009)

1.113 Branches will have the right to change their Music Board Representatives at any Branch Annual General Meeting or Special General Meeting as and when required.

1.114 Within the Music Board a Management Committee and Sub – Committees may be formed.  (AGM 2004).

1.115 The Music Board will have the power to co-opt members as required and maintain a panel of qualified instructors subject to the approval of the National Council.

1.116 The Music Board will be responsible for:
  a) RSPBA input to the syllabus and examination of qualifications certificated by the PDQB;
  b) The Curriculum (Theory and Practice) for RSPBA courses leading to PDQB-certificated qualifications;
  c) Compilation of RSPBA textbooks and tutors for PDQB qualifications;
  d) The RSPBA Examination Centre for PDQB qualifications.

Note:  As at March 2007 the Piping and Drumming Qualifications Board is representative of the RSPBA, College of Piping, National Piping Centre, Piobaireachd Society and Army School of Bagpipe Music and Highland Drumming.

1.117 (This rule was deleted at the 2007 AGM)

1.118 (This rule was deleted at the 2007 AGM)

1.119 (This rule was deleted at the 2007 AGM)

1.120 (This rule was deleted at the 2007 AGM)

1.121 (This rule was deleted at the 2007 AGM)

1.122 (This rule was deleted at the 2007 AGM)

1.123 (This rule was deleted at the 2007 AGM)

Marketing and Media  (AGM2004).
1.124 The Marketing and Media Committee shall be responsible to the National Council for the management and implementation of all activities related to mass media, policies, events and championship procurement through the development of an annual implementation plan which promotes the Association and contributes to income generation.  The Convenor shall be appointed from the National Council with the power to co – opt as required.  (AGM 2004).

Ladies` Committee
1.125 A Convener shall be appointed annually by the National Council and she will form her own committee. 

1.126 It shall carry out such functions as may be delegated to it by the National Council.

Complaints Procedure
1.127 All complaints regarding RSPBA officials, RSPBA activities or pipe bands / pipe band personnel should be made in writing to the Chief Executive using the standard complaints form available from RSPBA Headquarters. Complaints will be considered under the formal complaints procedure, the guidelines on which are also available from RSPBA Headquarters.

1.128 All RSPBA officials, Associate Members, Member Bands and their personnel are expected to conduct themselves in a manner which ensures the integrity and professionalism of the RSPBA. The National Council will have the right to suspend or rescind RSPBA or committee membership in circumstances where the interests or standing of the Association clearly have been undermined.

SECTION TWO
GENERAL RULES

Membership and Fees
2.1 Any Pipe Band which subscribes fully to the Objects, Constitution and Rules of the Association shall be eligible to apply for admission to membership of the Association. 

2.2 Application for admission to membership shall be made in such form as the National Council of the Association may from time to time prescribe. 

2.3 Admission to membership of The Association shall be at the discretion of the National Council, who may approve or decline to approve any application for admission.

Date of Payment
2.4 All member Bands shall be obliged to pay an Annual Band Membership Fee at the rate determined from time to time by the Annual General Meeting of The Association. Late payment will incur a penalty of 20% of the current Registration fee.

2.5 A notice specifying the Annual Band Membership Fee payable by each Member Band shall be posted as soon as is reasonably practicable after the Annual General Meeting to each member Band at the latest address notified to the Association as the address of such Member Band, and the Band Membership Fee shall be paid so as to reach the Chief Executive of the Association not later than the Thirtieth day of November next after the date of such notice.

2.6 Any Member Band whose Annual Band Membership Fee shall not have been received by the Chief Executive by that date shall be in arrears and shall not be permitted to take part in any Association activity, meeting, contest or competition (whether called, organised or sponsored by the Association or held under its aegis) so long as the Annual Band Membership Fee remains unpaid.

2.7 A Member Band which is in arrears and whose outstanding Annual Band Membership Fees shall not have been paid so as to reach the Chief Executive of the Association by the Thirtieth day of November in the year next following the year in which it became in arrears shall be deemed to have lapsed from membership of the Association, and shall ipso facto cease to be a member of the Association.

2.8 Any Band which has so ceased to be a member shall be eligible to regain membership by making payment to The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association the outstanding Band Membership Fees for the previous three years.

2.9 A Certificate signed by the Chief Executive or other duly authorised official or representative of the Association to the effect that a member Band is in arrears or has ceased to be a member as aforesaid shall be conclusive evidence thereof.

Registration
2.10 Bands joining the Association will ensure that each person including Committee members complete an individual application form. 

2.11 Each form must have the signature of the person making application, Juveniles only giving date of birth. 

2.12 A computer printout will be returned to the Band Secretary which must be carried by the Pipe Major or his/her assistant at all contests or competitions and shall be available for inspection by the Association representative on request.

2.13 (This rule was deleted at the 2007 AGM)

2.14 No person shall be allowed to play in a contest who has not been registered for fourteen days prior to the contest date. 

2.15 All members shall be registered with their Band until such time as they wish to transfer to another Band or leave the Association for any reason. 

2.16 Members wishing to transfer to another Band or leave the Association must complete a Release / Transfer form which will be submitted to headquarters for endorsement.

2.17 When the membership of a Band has lapsed for two years the registered members will be released in order to transfer to another Band.

Dual Registration
2.18 No Adult or Juvenile members shall be allowed to register in more than one Band except the Pipe Major or Assistant Pipe Major of a Juvenile, Grade 4 or Novice Juvenile Band.

2.19 The dual registered Pipe Major and Assistant Pipe Major of a Grade 4 Band are not permitted to compete together at any Grade 4 contest.

2.20 Any other member signing for more than one Band will be liable to suspension for such period as the National Council decide. 

2.20.1 Secretaries, Committee Members can be registered with more than one band but can only compete with designated band. (AGM 2000)

2.21 A similar penalty will apply to the Secretary or other Officials of a Band who knowingly lodges a false registration with the Association.

Juvenile Age
2.22 All members of Juvenile and Novice Juvenile Bands with the exception of the Pipe Major or Assistant Pipe Major must be under 18 years of age on the 1st day of November of the period to which the registration refers. 

2.23 All Juvenile members of Juvenile and Novice Juvenile Bands must be prepared to produce a Birth Certificate on request.

2.24 At all contests one adult (Pipe Major or Assistant Pipe Major) only is permitted to play.

2.25 When the Band or part thereof plays more than once at any contest on the same day, the same adult must compete throughout the day.

Transfers etc
2.26 When a players registration has been approved by the Chief Executive that person shall not be permitted to transfer without the authority of the Chief Executive. 

2.27 When a persons registration has been accepted by the Chief Executive that person shall not be permitted to transfer without first obtaining a signed Release / Transfer form from the Band Officials. 

2.28 After approval by the Chief Executive the transfer can take place. 

2.29 Should a Bands Officials refuse to sign the required Release / Transfer form the person concerned can appeal to the National Council through the Chief Executive. 

2.30 The National Council after consultation with all concerned will make a decision on the future registration of the person concerned.

2.31 Where it can be proved that a Bandsman/woman has retained any item of equipment from the previous Band, his/her registration with any Band will be automatically suspended until clearance has been received at Headquarters from the initial Band.

2.32 No Player is permitted to transfer to a lower grade Band without the consent of the National Council.

Grading
2.33 It shall be the aim of the Association to grade all Bands to the most appropriate grade.

2.33.1 Overseas bands’ subscription forms must be forwarded to Headquarters two months prior to the contest, together with the members’ band details. (AGM 2008)

2.34 Bands will have the right to appeal.

2.35 The National Council shall on the recommendation of the Music Board grade all Bands into one of the following Grades. At Major Championships only: - Grade 1, Grade 2, Grade 3 ‘A’, Grade 3’B’, Juvenile, Grade 4 ‘A’, Grade 4 ‘B’ and Novice Juvenile.  At all other competitions: - Grade 1, Grade 2, Grade 3, and Juvenile, Grade 4 and Novice Juvenile. (AGM 2000)

2.36 A member of the Music Board shall maintain a Grading Chart which shall show the result of each Bands performance in each grade of contest.

2.37 The National Council shall have power to consider such factual information when Annual Regrading takes place.

2.38 In addition, on the recommendation of the Music Board the National Council shall be empowered to regrade any Band at any time during the contest season if such a course should be deemed necessary.

2.39 Bands applying for downgrading must be prepared to compete in TWO further contests in their existing grade, prior to decisions being given.

2.40 New Bands accepted into membership shall be referred to the Music Board who shall recommend the Grading to the National Council. 

2.41 When a resuscitated Band applies for re-admission to the Association it shall be placed in its former grade. 

2.42 Bands changing their name at any time will continue in the same grade, except on appeal, when it shall be referred to the Music Board for a recommendation.

Adjudicators
2.43 The Association shall maintain a panel of qualified Adjudicators from which such Adjudicators for all contests run under R.S.P.B.A. rules, and to meet requests from Affiliated Associations, shall be drawn. The Adjudicators’ Panel shall be responsible to the National Council for all matters pertaining to adjudication apart from competition procedure. Members of this panel shall not be permitted to hold any R.S.P.B.A. or Branch office out with the Adjudicators’ Panel unless authorised by the National Council, except on the Music Board, provided that their qualifications are acceptable to the National Council. (AGM 2004).

2.44 All R.S.P.B.A – approved members of the Adjudicators’ Panel shall be deemed to be Members of the Association by virtue of their Adjudicator status, subject to conditions set by the National Council in consultation with the Adjudicators’ Panel. (AGM 2004).

2.45 The Management of the Adjudicators’ Panel shall be vested in an Adjudicators’ Panel Management Board comprising a Convenor, Vice – Convenor, Minute Secretary, two National Council Members and two members nominated by the Adjudicators’ Training Group.  (AGM 2004).

2.46 The Convenor, Vice – Convenor and Minute Secretary of the Adjudicators’ Panel Management Board shall normally serve for three years. (AGM 2004). 

2.46.1 The National Council representatives on the Adjudicators’ Panel Management Board shall be appointed annually by the National Council.  The appointees shall represent the interests of the Adjudicators’ Panel at meetings of the National Council. (AGM 2004).

2.47 (This rule was deleted at the 2007 AGM)

2.48 (This rule was deleted at the 2007 AGM)

2.49 The number of adjudicators engaged at any one contest shall be determined by the Music Board in consultation with the Adjudicators’ Panel Management Board and approved by the National Council. (AGM 2004).

2.50 Any registered member interfering, threatening or using abusive language towards the Adjudicators, Officials, Branch Officials, Stewards or members of the committee at any contest, or bringing the Association into disrepute shall be liable to suspension from membership of the Association.

Contest Levy
2.51 A percentage of total prize money or appearance money paid in lieu of prize money is payable by the contest promoter to the Association within fourteen days following the contest.

2.52 The percentage for each contest will be determined by the National Council.

Expenses
2.53 The expenses of officials and members of the National Council and appointed Sub-committees shall be borne by the Association.

2.54 Expenses of Band Representatives at General Meetings shall be borne by the Representative or the Bands concerned.

Meritorious Service
2.55 (This rule was deleted at the 2006 AGM) refer to new rule 1.80.1.

Interpretation of Rules
2.56 In the event of a misunderstanding of any of the Rules, the National Council reserve the right to supply an interpretation which shall be final and binding.

SECTION THREE
CONTEST RULES

National Council Members` Duties
3.1 One or two members of the National Council shall be in attendance at all contests and be co-opted to the contest committee for that day.

3.2 The duties shall be to supervise the running of the Contest, ensure that completed summaries of the Adjudicators` results and prize lists have been checked, deal with all complaints, disputes and protests relating to the contest and ensure that the Rules of the Association are fully carried out.

Local Rules
3.3 Local Contest Rules after approval by the National Council shall become part of the General Contest rules and shall be adhered to.

Promotions and Permits
3.4 A Branch, Promoter or Contest Committee proposing to promote a contest must first make application to the Association for a contract/permit giving full details of prize money and preferred local rules, if any.

3.5 The National Council shall encourage contest promoters to provide contests for Juvenile and Novice Juvenile Bands out with Grades 3 and 4.

3.6 It shall be a condition of granting this contract / permit, that all Promoters provide a minimum number of cash prizes and trophies as laid down by the Association. 

3.7 On approval being granted a permit shall be issued, fee for which shall be determined by the National Council and should be paid at least 28 days prior to the Contest.

3.8 No alteration to the approved Contest Entry Form is permitted without the consent of the National Council.

3.9 In the case of the World, European, British, Scottish and all Major Championships at least two months notice shall be given to the Chief Executive by any overseas Band of their intention to participate in any of the aforementioned Championships.

3.10 In all other Competitions within the United Kingdom, prior notice shall be given to the Chief Executive by any overseas Band intending to participate.

3.11 Promoters receiving entries from Overseas Bands or Drum Majors must advise the Chief Executive before acceptance.

3.12 Any Band, registered member or official thereof taking part, directly or indirectly, or assisting in any manner whatsoever, a Promoter of a contest out with the rules of the Association without permission of the National Council shall be guilty of an infringement and shall be liable to such penalties as the National Council may decide.

Contest Rules
3.13 The National Council shall provide a set of Indoor Competition Rules which shall apply to all Major Indoor Competitions.

3.14 All contests including Miniature Band, Quartette, Trio Piping and Solo or Corps Drumming, shall be open only to Bands in full membership of the Association, affiliated bodies or by special invitation of the National Council.

3.15 No member of the Association or the approved Adjudicators Panel may take part in any contest not authorised by the Association except with the written permission of the National Council.

NON ATTENDANCE AT CONTESTS

3.16 Bands, Drum Majors and Individuals having entered a contest and failing to advise the Contest Secretary of Non-Attendance one hour prior to the start time of Major Championships or by the draw or report time of all other contests may be fined a sum as determined by the National Council and may be suspended until the fine has been paid in full.

3.17 Entry fees will not be returned at any time.

All aforementioned Contests shall observe the following Rules: -

Juvenile or Novice Juvenile Bands Playing in Adult Contests
3.18 A Juvenile and Novice Juvenile Band wishing to play in a higher grade of contest must do so with the registered personnel of the Juvenile and Novice Juvenile Band only.

3.19 Juveniles can only compete with the Band with which they are registered.

Duties of Band Representatives
3.20 Each Band on entering for a contest will enter on the entry form the name of their representative for that contest, who shall be held responsible for the prompt attendance of his Band on the contest field.

Order of Play
3.21 Each Band taking part in a contest shall send a representative to the draw for the order of play.

3.22 When a Band is not represented at the draw the Band representative must report immediately on arrival to the R.S.P.B.A representative. 

3.23 The order of play shall be carried out by a member of the National Council using 2 sets of numbers, one to represent Bands, the other the order of play.

3.24 The draw for order of play will be made one hour prior to the contest start time, except when the National Council has approved a promoter’s request for an earlier draw time. 

3.25 (This rule was deleted at the 1997 AGM)

3.26 (This rule was deleted at the 1999 AGM)

3.27 Late entries following the published closing dates will not be accepted from Bands or Drum Majors. 

3.28 (This rule was deleted at the 2007 AGM)

3.29 (This rule was deleted at the 2007 AGM)

3.30 (This rule was deleted at the 2005 AGM)

3.31 (This rule was deleted at the 2007 AGM)

3.32 The order of play at all contests shall be Novice Juvenile, Grade 4, Juvenile, Grade 3, Grade 2, Grade 1, unless the Bands receive prior written notification of revised order of play.

3.33 (This rule was deleted at the 2000 AGM)

3.34 (This rule was deleted at the 2007 AGM)

3.35 Any Band refusing or failing to play according to the draw may be disqualified.

3.36 A Band which is entered for any contest and is unable to be present at the venue must notify the Contest Secretary before, and up to the advertised starting time of the draw except where the draw is not taken on the day of the contest, in which case withdrawal must be notified at least one hour before the advertised time of the contest. 

3.37 Failure to comply will incur a penalty of an amount as determined by the National Council and suspension until paid.  The only exception to this rule will be the case of transport delay through unforeseen circumstances of which the promoter or the R.S.P.B.A. representative has been advised by telephone or otherwise. In such cases the Band representative should report to the R.S.P.B.A. representative immediately on arrival at the Contest Field.

Sets or Selections
3.38 The playing requirements for each grade to be determined by the Music Board.

3.39 Where more than one MSR set or selection of tunes is required, the draw time will be determined by the National Council.

3.40 Where Bands are required to submit more than one MSR set or selection of tunes at one or two part contests, no MSR set or selection of tunes will consist of a tune included in another MSR set or selection of tunes with the exception of test/MAP tunes. 

Playing in Higher Grades - Minor Contests
3.41 Where lower grade Bands are permitted to play up one grade the following must be observed. Novice Juvenile to Juvenile, Juvenile to Grade 2, Grade 4 to Grade 3, Grade 3 to Grade 2, Grade 2 to Grade 1.

3.42 Where there are no Novice Juvenile or Juvenile sections Novice Juvenile will play in Grade 4 and Juvenile in Grade 3.

3.43 When playing up is permitted in this type of contest Novice Juvenile will play in Grade 3 and Juvenile in Grade 2.

3.44 At certain contests, lower grade Bands may be permitted to play up one grade, if time permits, entries taken prior to draw. 

3.45 Bands playing in Open contests will comply with current Grade 1 conditions. NB. sets and selections only.

3.46 Any Band or individual playing under or over the agreed grade or event time will be disqualified.

Dress
3.47 At all contests Bands must appear in uniform dress which must be the same except for minor detail, e.g. where Drummers wear uniform different to that of the Pipers.

3.48 Any further exception must have the approval of the National Council.

Band Formation
3.49 In forming the circle, the Pipe Major and Leading Drummer may take up a position within the circle to ensure the best performance from the Band.

3.50 The Band circle is intended as a guide to Bands. 

3.51 Adjudicators must not enter the outer circle.

Circle Size
3.52 The centre of the circle to be 14 metres from the start line. The Band circle shall have a diameter of 8 metres and the Adjudicators’ circle shall have a diameter of 14 metres.

Marching and Discipline Contests
3.53 Where possible, adjudicators should be drawn from HM forces.

Entry to Contest Arena
3.54 No person except officiating Adjudicators, R.S.P.B.A. representatives of the day and Bandsmen / Bandswomen when competing shall be allowed inside the contest arena.

Number of Performers
3.55 Bands taking part in the Major Championships shall comprise not less than 12 players, those to consist of 8 Pipers, 3 Snare Drummers and 1 Bass Drummer, with the exception of Juvenile, Grade 4 and Novice Juvenile Bands which shall consist of not less than 6 Pipers, 2 Snare Drummers and 1 Bass Drummer.

3.56 Outwith the Major Championships Grade 2 and 3 Bands may compete with not less than 6 Pipers, 2 Snare Drummers and 1 Bass Drummer.

3.57 If during a performance the band plays with less than the requisite numbers of players the band will be disqualified.

3.58 At Local Contest, where a prize is awarded for 'Best Bass Section', only Bands fielding not less than one Bass Drummer and one Tenor Drummer will be eligible for this prize.

Contest Performance
3.59 The first Band to compete will be advised at the draw as to the time it must be at the starting point in the Contest Arena; thereafter it is the bounden duty of each succeeding Band to move forward as directed by the Stewards.

3.60 To reduce the gap between final tuning and competing to the lowest possible margin, the officials shall mark off the final tuning areas in the closest possible proximity to the contest arena and the Bands should move forward to these areas on request. 

3.61 Stewards may be provided as an aid to Bands, but they carry no responsibility for the non-attendance of any Band in the contest arena.

3.62 The final responsibility rests with each Band to be at the starting point as and when required and any Band failing to do so and not complying with official instructions is subject to immediate disqualification.

3.63 Bands will arrive at the start line properly dressed, including head dress and come to the halt. 

3.64 After halting at the start line, no Bandsman/woman will be allowed to withdraw.

3.65 (This rule was deleted at the 2005 AGM.)

3.66 The performance will commence from the "at ease" position with the pipes down. 

3.67 On a signal from the Ensemble Adjudicator in Championship contests or the Piping Adjudicator in all other contests, the Band will commence its performance on the command by the Pipe Major.

3.68 It will be the said Adjudicators duty to ensure that the other Adjudicators are ready.

Adjudication
3.69 The musical performance will be adjudicated from the first stroke of the first three pace roll on the quick march.

3.70 The introductory tempo shall be not less than 60 paces per minute. 

3.71 The Adjudication of the musical performance will cease after all instruments have stopped sounding.

3.72 Each Adjudicator will be provided with critique sheets, suitably printed, for the allocation of placings and remarks at Major Championships and all other competitions, and shall not condemn a Band on the setting of a tune.

3.73 The sheet must be completed in duplicate and passed to the National Council Representative at the end of each performance before the next Band begins.

3.73.1 The result of each Major Championship and all other contests shall be determined by the addition of the band placings from all adjudicators in each musical discipline i.e. 1 point for first, 2 points for second, 3 points for third. The lowest total shall win the contest. (AGM 2003).

3.74 Places awarded at Major Championships and at all other competitions should be compensated by constructive criticism in the space provided. (AGM 2003).

3.75 A period of time not exceeding 10 (ten) minutes should be allowed at the end of each Grade for the Adjudicators to make changes if necessary.

3.76 (This rule was deleted at the 2005 AGM)

3.77 (This rule was deleted at the 2005 AGM)

3.78 (This rule was deleted at the 2007 AGM)

3.79 When in the open they shall not approach nearer than three metres to any member of the competing Band.

3.80 Adjudicators should not discuss a band performance with colleague Adjudicators before deciding their results at the end of the contest, and should not at any time influence others in the adjudicating team during the course of the competition.

3.81 Adjudicators cannot disqualify a Band, solo player or a Drum Major.

3.81.1 (This rule was deleted at the 2005 AGM)

Adjudicators’ Critique Sheets
3.82 The original shall be given to the Band and Drum Major after the distribution of prizes and the duplicate passed to the Chief Executive.

3.83 When a Band has been disqualified it shall be regarded as not having played and the relative sheets retained by the Association.

Ties
3.84 In a contest where the final result shall be decided by a single performance and in the event of a tie, the preferences shall be as follows:

1^st Preference ………………….. Ensemble total

2^nd Preference …………………. Piping total

3^rd Preference ………………… Drumming total

In a contest where the final result shall be decided by combined performance totals and in the event of a tie, the preferences shall be as follows:

1^st Preference ………. Ensemble combined overall totals

2^nd Preference ……… Piping combined overall totals

3^rd Preference ……… Drumming combined overall totals

4^th Preference ……… Ensemble total in M.S.R contest

In the event of a tie in Drumming in a combined contest the preference shall be the Drumming total in the M.S.R. contest. (AGM 2004).

3.8.5 In any type of contest with pipers only, and in the event of a tie, the preference shall be by Adjudicators’ preference of all Adjudicators involved, original placings would remain unchanged throughout this consultation. (AGM 2004).

3.8.6 In a Solo Drumming Contest the competition result will be decided by the total of individual placings from each Adjudicator. The lowest total will be the winner. In the event of a tie the result will be decided by the following preferences:

1^st Preference: In a competition involving both an M.S.R. and Medley performance, any tie in the overall result will be decided on M.S.R. preference.

2^nd Preference: Highest number of highest places awarded throughout all Adjudicator placings.

3^rd Preference: Highest number of highest places awarded in the M.S.R. performance.

4^th Preference: By Adjudicator preference of all Adjudicators involved, original placings would remain unchanged throughout consultation. (AGM 2004).

TROPHIES
Major Championships
3.87 Bands, Drum Majors and Solo Competitors failing to return trophies to the Association, clean and in good condition one month prior to Contest date shall be fined a sum as determined by the National Council, and shall be suspended until the fine has been paid to the Headquarters and the Trophy returned to the Promoter. (AGM 1997)

Local Competitions
3.87.1 Trophies must be returned clean and in good condition to the Promoter before the start of the relevant grade or in compliance with the Promoter's wishes. (AGM 1997)

3.87.2 Failing to return trophies clean and in good condition and in compliance with the Promoter's wishes will result in the band, solo competitor or Drum major being fined an amount as determined by the National Council and shall be suspended until the fine has been paid to Headquarters or the Branch concerned and the trophy returned to the promoter. (AGM 2003).

Supreme Awards and Points Allocation
3.88 The recipients of these awards shall be the Band / Drum corps with the highest pointage over the defined Major Championships in the grades approved by the National Council, pointage being awarded as follows: -First Place 6 points; Second place 5 points; and so on.  In the event of a tie in pointage, preference shall be: -

1. Band/Drum Corps with most FIRST PRIZES.

2. Band/Drum Corps with most points in World Championships.

3.89 For these Trophies, Bands are confined to there own grades.

Grand Finale and Prize Awards
3.90 At all times the member receiving an individual or Band Award must be in Band uniform or Individual Highland Dress. Only one member to break from ranks to receive prize.

3.91 Any Band Member or Drum Major taking food or drink onto the arena at the finale will be liable to suspension for a period of time as determined by the National Council. 

3.92 Any Band, Band Member or Drum Major leaving the arena without good reason before the dismissal command has been given will be liable to suspension as determined by the National Council.

Protests
3.93 All complaints or protests should be made in writing accompanied by a deposit of a sum as determined by the National Council and lodged with the Association Official in charge before the distribution of prizes. 

3.94 Such deposit shall be returnable if the complaint or protest is upheld but may be forfeited if the complaint or protest is found to be unwarranted

3.95 If a complaint or protest by a Band is lodged against any other Band on the grounds of substitute   personnel or other registration irregularity, the matter shall be dealt with by the National Council Representatives whose decision shall be binding on all parties concerned. 

3.96 Should the aggrieved party disagree with the findings of the National Council Representatives they shall have the right of appeal to the National Council whose decision is final.

3.97 Pending the result of the appeal, the findings of the National Council Representatives shall be accepted by the parties concerned.

3.98 National Council Representatives on the day of a contest and before the distribution of prizes, being satisfied that a Band has wilfully violated any of the Rules, shall have the power to debar such Band from the prize list, suspend the decision of the Adjudicators and award the prizes to the respective Bands next in order of merit.

3.99 The National Council shall have the power to act similarly, after the contest, if satisfied that a violation of the Rules has taken place.

Summary Sheets
3.100 As soon after a Contest as possible the Chief Executive or Branch Secretary shall compile a summary of the results and forward a copy to each competing Band or Drum Major.

Contest Queries
3.101 All queries relative to and arising during a contest shall be referred to the National Council Representatives in attendance.

SECTION FOUR
BRANCHES AND BRANCH RULES

4.0  Branches and Branch Rules
4.1 Each branch shall be designated thus "The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association - (Name of Branch)".

4.2 Where Branches are divided into sections, the section name will follow the Branch Name and be limited to Pipe Bands in membership of The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association. 

4.3 Branches and Sections may be formed with the consent of the Association provided the Constitution and Branch rules have been approved by the National Council. 

4.4 There shall be only one Branch in Northern Ireland.

Rules: - The following must be strictly adhered to: -
4.5    No Branch can be recognised if they, or any of their Bands are members of, or are associated with any other Pipe Band Association within the United Kingdom.

4.6    No Band can be admitted into Membership of a Branch or Section unless such a Band is in Membership of the "The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association".

4.7  The  Annual General Meeting of each Branch shall be held not later than the 15th December each year.

4.8  Branches will close accounts not later than 30th September each year.

4.9  Sections will close accounts not later than the 15th September each year.

4.10   In the event of any dispute arising between any Band, or members thereof and the Branch or Section, the aggrieved party shall have the right of appeal to the National Council whose decisions shall be final and binding on the parties concerned.

4.11 Branches or Sections shall not have the power to grant Contest permits but they themselves may promote Contests provided the prior consent of the National Council has been obtained.

4.12   Any Branch or Section becoming a promoter of a Pipe Band Contest shall not be required to pay the permit fee, but shall nevertheless require to apply to and receive a permit from the Chief Executive in which case the Branch or Section will become the promoter and shall be required to comply with all the conditions relative to promotion of Pipe Band Contests.

4.13 Each branch shall undertake to comply with the Constitution and Rules of the Association as amended from time to time, and the said Constitution and Rules shall govern all matters not referred to in the Branch Rules.

4.14   In the event of any Branch becoming defunct, all books, monies and properties shall be transferred to, and become the property of the Association for the time being.

4.15   Any Section becoming defunct, all books, monies and properties, shall be transferred to and become the property of the Branch.

4.16   Each Branch shall furnish the Chief Executive with a copy of its Annual Report at least one week prior to the Branch Annual General Meeting. 

4.17   In the event of sections prevailing within a Branch each section to submit to the Branch Secretary a copy of its Annual Report at least one week prior to the Branch Annual General Meeting.

4.18   Branches shall recommend that the Branch Secretary or   Treasurer should attend the Association Annual General Meetings even although he/she is not representing a Band.

4.19 Bands joining the Association will be allocated a Branch within a geographical boundary.  Bands will be expected to contact said Branch and pay annual membership to that Branch.  (AGM 2003).

SECTION FIVE
DRUM MAJORS

5.0 Drum Majors` Contests
5.1 Where practicable the following rules shall apply: -

5.2 The contest will be in heats as determined by the Music Board and approved by the National Council.

5.3 Dress will be judged separately from M & D. and Flourish, and the dress worn in all sections must in no way vary.

5.4 Neatness, cleanliness and how it is worn to be the determining factors.

5.5 The Adjudicator may not touch the competitor whilst judging for dress.

5.6 At all Major Championships at least two Adjudicators shall be used, divided equally between Marching and Deportment, and Flourish.

5.7 Either may adjudicate the dress.

5.8 A placings-based adjudication system shall be used to determine competition results.

5.9 Dress assessments shall apply only in the heats. Finals shall be adjudicated in the categories of Marching and Deportment, and Flourish only.

5.10 The finalists shall be the competitors with the highest placings (not necessarily the heat winners).

5.11 In a tie Marching and Deportment shall take preference in deciding the final results.

5.12 Critique sheets will be handed out as in Band contests.

5.13 At all Major Championships there will be Adult, Juvenile and Junior Sections. Juvenile will be under 18 years of age and Juniors under 14 years of age on 1st November of the period to which the registration refers.

5.14 Juveniles and Juniors will be confined to their own sections.

5.15 The number of competitors in each heat including final will be determined by the Music Board subject to the approval of the  National Council.

5.16 All Drum Majors must be registered with a Band, with the exception of Juniors.

5.17 Drum Majors in membership of any other Drum Majors` Association within the United Kingdom will not be permitted to take part in any Association activities.

5.18 The Music Board shall make available to competing Drum Majors a list of recommend Dress, Drill Movements and all matters relating to Drum Majors contests, as approved by the National Council.

5.19 No grade of Band contest to be interrupted by any part of a Drum Majors` contest except at the discretion of the National Council Representatives of the Day.

5.20 No Drum Major Adjudicator will coach a competitor in the 24 hour period before a major contest or on the day of the contest. (AGM 2002).