Introduction to the Great Highland Bagpipe

Introduction

When most people think of the bagpipe, they envision the Great Highland Bagpipe. It is only one of many types of bagpipes that are played around the world, but it has become the most famous. Many people would like to learn to play the bagpipe, but they are not sure how to start. In the United States, it can be very difficult to find resources to learn to play the bagpipe. Unlike pipers in Scotland, most pipers in America do not get started on the pipes until they are adults. This article will provide a broad overview of the history and culture of the Great Highland Bagpipe, and it will provide an overview of how to begin learning to play the bagpipe.

The goal of this web page is to introduce people to the Great Highland Bagpipe. It is not focused solely on how to play the bagpipe. Instead, it covers the basic information needed to get started on the pipes. This report is intended for people that are interested in learning to play the bagpipe, but who do not have any information about piping or the piping community. In the United States, it is often difficult to find local information on learning to play the bagpipe. Often, people enjoy hearing pipers and pipe bands, and they would like to learn to play. There is a large pool of potential pipers in the United States, but the majority are not sure what is required to start. After reading this report, a person interested in learning to play the bagpipe will know what to do to get started.

This report begins with a history of bagpipes around the world. This is followed by the history of the Great Highland Bagpipe, and information on how this bagpipe set up is also included. A section on how to start learning to play the bagpipes comes next. This includes information on finding a teacher and a band. A review of buying bagpipes and piping supplies follows. Then the music of the bagpipe is covered, along with bagpipe competitions. Finally, information on joining a piping association is provided. This series of sections will provide a well rounded view of the current state of piping.

Although the bagpipe is a complex instrument, it is very rewarding to learn to play. A strong community exists with pipers. A piper is able to enjoy playing solo, but he or she can also join a pipe band. In addition, pipers have the option of competing in Highland games as either a soloist or as part of a band. Although not nearly as numerous as guitarists are pianists, the number of pipers in the United States continues to grow. Many people feel that it is too late to begin learning if they are already an adult; however, this is not true. Adults can learn to play the bagpipes, and enjoy piping and the piping community.

garycox@io.com
Date last modified: 8/8/98