St.Columcille, an Irish prince and warrior who became a priest and scholar, was an Irish saint who brought Christianity to Scotland and from the Scottish Isle of Iona spread faith, knowledge and culture throughout Europe. St. Columcille is a symbol of the unity of people, all people, but particularly the Scots and the Irish; historically, two different names for the same race. Sean McGonigal founded a pipe band that he wanted to be different than any that had ever gone before. Sean chose St. Columcille to represent his ideal, the unity of the Gael. He underscored his theme by adding United Gaelic, for Sean wanted St. Columcille UGPB not to represent one faction or another, but all who were proud of their blood and heritage - Irish and Scot - Protestant and Catholic. And within this theme of unity of people his own goal was simple enough and he expressed it in the motto of the band - Ar Aghaidh Le Ceol na nGael - Forward the music of the Gael. The Ancient McLean of Duarth tartan, a symbol of steadfastness and bravery in the face of adversity, is worn by the band.
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