Highland Arts
You don’t have to wear a kilt to class or play the bagpipes to attend Alma College… but you may get the urge to, and we won’t stop you.
At Alma College, we have long held our Scottish pride over the years. From our Presbyterian base, to highland dancers, to bagpipers, to a marching band that marches in kilts with our very own registered tartan, Alma displays its rich Scottish traditions and continues to keep its heritage alive.
Each year on Memorial Day weekend, the city and college host the Highland Festival, one of the largest highland games in North America. Attracting nearly 250 bagpipers, world champion highland dancers and world record-holding highland athletes, Alma proudly plays tribute to its Scottish roots and passes on the traditions to members of every generation.
Highland Dance
Alma College offers collegiate level highland dance technique, group choreography instruction, and performance and competition opportunities with the Alma College Kiltie Dancers on a regional, national and international level.
Highland dancers are eligible for a $1,500 performance scholarship and additional Distinguished Scottish Arts scholarships may be awarded upon audition.
Piping and Drumming
The Alma College Pipe Band and Piping and Drumming program provides students of all skill levels with opportunities to develop and hone their skills. Our musicians play at prestigious competitions and special performances, both at-home and abroad.
Members of the Pipe Band from all skill levels are eligible for a $1,500 performance scholarship and additional Distinguished Scottish Arts scholarships may be awarded upon audition.