Today's lesson focuses on a simple but powerful tool to help build and test your consistency. As you learn a movement, or a phrase, or a tune you first gain the ability to play it correctly once or a...
We previously discussed how to use accurately and reliably tune the notes of your pipe chanter. However, the bagpipe scale is different than the scale used by "normal" Western instruments so you...
There are many things that go into the thorough and complete preparation of a tune for competition or performance: learning the technique, memorizing, getting the tune up to speed, proper expression,...
Today's lesson features a new tune: The South Georgia Whaling Song — a traditional Gaelic air in the 6/8 time signature. I first learned this tune from Alasdair Gillies and he gave me a copy of the...
I'm finally back from my last trip of the year to Scotland to compete at the Highland Games. Below are a few videos from the Birnam Highland Games. I go to Birnam almost every year, and I've some...
It's the 21st of August, so let's do something fun: Twenty-one for Twenty first! Here are 21 objectives for today's practice: 1. Play 21 Power GDEs from each note 2. Play 21 E Doublings from F 3....
I'm currently in Scotland for the biggest pipe band event of the year, the World Pipe Band Championships. For many years, pipers from around the world waited for weeks (or months) to hear the...
I've taught pipers of all ages and all ability levels from around the world. One feature of bagpipe music continues to be challenge for all of us: the dot-cut. In the early stages, pipers struggle to...
The right equipment can make all the difference when it comes to the pipes. A little change can make playing so much easier and more comfortable. We discussed this topic last year, but I'm always...
The two greatest bagpipe-related innovations of the past 20 years are: synthetic drone reeds and moisture control systems. These desiccant-based systems require proper installation, maintenance, and...
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