Lessons

Bagpipes are not an easy instrument, and require a good teacher to point out the many mistakes that are possible while learning. I have experience teaching both individuals and groups, including bands. My teaching style requires effort and hard work, but if you put in the effort I wont let mistakes, which will diminish your playing, slip.

Lessons begin on a practice chanter. The chanter is a recorder like instrument. Chanters are available at bagpipe supply shops and on line. Two reputable and knowledgeable dealers in the Northwest are Tartan Town and Tartan Thistle. I will provide basic exercises; later on you should buy a good music book. I can recommend a couple different books that I like to use.

You do not need bagpipes to begin with. Bagpipes are an expensive investment and it’s better to wait until you are ready and then pick out a set to fit your needs.

Do not buy Pakistani pipes. These are cheap imitations and will sound like a snake charmer, if they work at all. It is sad and frustrating to see people spend several hundred dollars on a set like this, thinking they are getting a bargain, when in reality they will become frustrated and eventually quit.

• Lessons: $20 per hour