The Balclutha Pipe Band and the John McGlashan College Pipe Band joined in order to make up enough numbers to compete.
The group came first in its section for the street march and set events, and second in the medley. It was also recommended that the band move up a grade from 4B to 4A.
Balclutha pipe major Alex McLaughlin said the two bands saw that they were both under-strength to be competitive at that level, so decided to combine their players and their resources so a higher standard could be reached.
''They couldn't go because they didn't have enough [players], and we just had enough but asked if we could combine.''
The band reached its highest numbers, amassing 20 pipers, five tenor drummers and four snare drummers.
''We did something quite different for us. It had the potential to be quite disastrous but it worked out seamlessly ... The results spoke for themselves.''
He said there was a ''great family atmosphere'' with members ranging in age from 9 to 70-plus.
''Some compromises were made, agendas and expectations were adjusted and working as a team brought a sharper focus. It was extremely satisfying to see other players stop and listen to us practise, as we had caught their ear.''
Balclutha drum major Geoff Miller said the band was seeking ''new blood'' and was particularly interested in snare drummers.
Experience is preferred, although the band does help train its players.
Mr Miller said he hoped new players would be found before the start of the competitive season in November.
The band had another outing yesterday, playing at the Anzac Day dawn service in Balclutha.
