20 bands register with the Association this year. Wilena Penny organizes a series of four workshops open to the lower level players. Some Cape Breton bands refuse to send their members to Antigonish for the workshops and hold their own. The major instructors' and senior bandsmans' workshop is held in Antigonish with Dr. Angus MacDonald as a principle instructor.

Piper Sandy Boyd passes away. Known around the world, Sandy jumped ship in Halifax and never went back to Scotland. He was a wanderer and where ever he went, a pipe band materialized. He had a terrific way with kids. The Association and its members take up a collection to contribute towards his funeral costs.

Scotia Legion wins the North American Grade 2 title under the direction of Pipe Major Doug Boyd. Boyd is later awarded the Pipe Major of the Year Award after Ken Grant in 1980 and Barb Stewart in 1981. The judge's fee is increased to $100.00 per day plus expenses.