Results: The 2026 Agnew-Harrison Invitational Showcases Top Drumming Talent in Hamilton

On April 11th, the prestigious Agnew-Harrison Invitational Drumming Competition returned to the John Weir Foote Armoury in Hamilton, hosted by the PPBSO Niagara-Hamilton Branch. The event once again brought together some of the finest drumming talent for a full day of exceptional competition.

Founded in 1984 by Jim Stewart and Jimmy Agnew, the Agnew-Harrison Invitational was created to establish a premier snare drumming contest in Ontario. Originally named in honour of George Harrison, a dedicated volunteer and supporter of both the PPBSO and the Niagara-Hamilton Branch, the first contest took place in March 1985. In 2005, the competition was renamed to include Jimmy Agnew, recognizing his lasting impact as a performer, teacher, adjudicator, and mentor. Since his passing in 2007, the contest continues to stand as a testament to his legacy.

This year’s event featured an outstanding judging panel, with Reid Maxwell travelling from British Columbia, joined by local judges Craig Stewart and Chris Bell. Their expertise and thoughtful adjudication contributed greatly to the success of the day.

Chris Bell, Craig Stewart and Reid Maxwell

The competition began in the morning with the Grade 5 and Grade 4 2/4 March events, alongside the Grade 3 and Grade 2 MSR competitions, drawing more than 25 competitors. The Grade 1 MSR followed in the afternoon, judged by the full panel and featuring 10 highly skilled drummers. Across all levels, the standard of playing was exceptional, highlighting the strength and depth of talent within the drumming community.

Amateur Results

Grade 1 1st – Rita DeNobriga 2nd – Troy Hamstra 3rd – Aidan Hogan

Grade 2 1st – Devin Brode 2nd – Connor Williams 3rd – Andrew Keppel

Grade 3 1st – Brenden Good 2nd – Ryan Seigmiller 3rd – Lillian Scott

Grade 4 1st – Graysen Ronayne 2nd – Dominic Beier 3rd – Austin Gayler

Grade 5 1st – Calum Porter 2nd – Sloan Elson-Woods 3rd – Hugh Dudek

In the evening, everyone gathered in the Argyll Mess for the highly anticipated Professional events, featuring both the MSR and Hornpipe/Jig contests. This year’s lineup included an impressive roster of competitors: Adam Tardif, Cameron Bolley, Cameron McKail, Harvey Dawson, James Kirkwood, Kyle Wardell, Malcolm Fuller, Matt Page, Miles Bennington, Robert Graham Jr., and Sam Linsley.

In the Professional MSR, Kyle Wardell claimed first place winning the Graham Kirkwood Memorial Torophy, followed by Robert Graham Jr. in second place and James Kirkwood in third. The Hornpipe/Jig event delivered more exciting and engaging performances, with Kyle Wardell once again taking top honours, winning the Jim Stewart Memorial Trophy, followed by James Kirkwood in second place and Robert Graham Jr winning third. Kyle Wardell was named the overall Professional Champion, capping off an outstanding performance across both events.

Branch President Brittney Wright, Kyle Wardell, Craig Steward, Chris Bell and Reid Maxwell

The PPBSO Niagara-Hamilton Branch sent its sincere thanks to judges Reid Maxwell, Chris Bell, and Craig Stewart for their time, expertise, and dedication. Special appreciation was also extended to their volunteer pipers, stewards, emcees, and branch members whose contributions helped maintain the high standard for this event. The branch also recognized it's sponsors for their generous support, which played a vital role in the continued success of the competition. The PPBSO would also like to say a special thank you to the Niagara-Hamilton Branch for their hard work and commitment in organizing and hosting such an exceptional invitational.

The Agnew-Harrison Invitational continues to be a cornerstone event in the calendar, celebrating excellence, tradition, and the future of solo drumming!