Melbourne Bagpipe Record Shattered in Massive AC/DC Tribute

A world record was broken in Melbourne, Australia. The event featured 374 bagpipe players performing in unison. They played AC/DC’s iconic rock anthem “It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock ‘n’ Roll)”.The massive musical gathering easily surpassed the previous record. That record was set by 333 pipers in Sofia, Bulgaria over a decade ago. The event was held at Federation Square, drawing thousands of spectators.

Historic Tribute to a Rock Legend

The song choice was deeply symbolic. AC/DC filmed their famous music video for the same song on Melbourne’s Swanston Street in 1976. That original video also featured bagpipers from a local band.This new record was a direct homage to that rock history. Two original pipers from the 1976 video participated in the record-breaking attempt. Their involvement created a powerful link between the past and present. According to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, the atmosphere was electric.

Gerard Butler’s Surprise Appearance

The event had a famous guest. Scottish actor Gerard Butler was in the crowd watching the performance. He was in Melbourne at the time.The pipers gave him a unique birthday surprise. They played “Happy Birthday” for him after the record attempt. Butler celebrated his 56th birthday the following day.

A Community United by Music

Organizers were thrilled with the turnout. They had hoped for 350 pipers but significantly exceeded that goal. Participants came from all over the state and included a wide age range.The oldest piper was 98 years old. Students from local schools also joined the ensemble. The event showcased the vibrant and inclusive nature of the local music scene. It proved that a classic rock song could bring together a diverse community.The successful record attempt was a celebration of local culture and global rock legacy. It demonstrated the enduring power of music to create shared, memorable experiences.

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The massive bagpipe ensemble not only set a new world record but also created a unforgettable moment of musical unity. The event perfectly blended local heritage with global rock fame, ensuring the Melbourne bagpipe record will be remembered for years to come.

Info at your fingertips

What was the previous world record for bagpipe players?

The previous record was 333 bagpipe players. It was set in Sofia, Bulgaria in 2012. The Melbourne event surpassed it by 41 pipers.

Why did they choose an AC/DC song?

AC/DC filmed their famous video for the song on a Melbourne street in 1976. That original video also featured bagpipers, making the song a perfect tribute to local music history.

Who were the special guests at the event?

Two original pipers from the 1976 AC/DC video participated. Scottish actor Gerard Butler also attended and received a birthday performance from the ensemble.

How many people were needed to break the record?

Organizers aimed for 350 pipers to break the existing record. The final official count was 374 verified bagpipe players performing together.

Where did the record attempt take place?

The event was held at Federation Square in central Melbourne. The location is near where AC/DC’s original video was filmed decades earlier.