Bagpipes for Sale: What You Need to Know Before You Buy
The bagpipes are truly iconic. If anything, their distinctive sound spells Scotland, though the instrument actually has roots in other cultures too. In case you’re looking for bagpipes for sale, much consideration must enter into the process of buying one. Whether you’re into Scottish heritage or simply fascinated by this very powerful instrument, understanding the basics will help guide your choice.
A Brief History of the Bagpipes
The bagpipes are rich and long. Most often associated with Scotland, their origins can actually be traced back to very ancient times in several cultures. Through the years, the instrument has transcended to become a symbol of Scottish pride and culture.
Nowadays, it is played for weddings, parades, and national events such as national day commemoration events. They are much more than merely an instrument—they are a tradition.
The Various Types of Bagpipes
Not all sets of bagpipes are created equal. There are several types of them, each with a different sound and characteristics. Here are some of the key varieties to know:
The Great Highland Bagpipes
These are the most recognized type of bagpipe when most people think of the term Scottish instruments. They have a loud, commanding sound, and are generally used in military settings, parades, and ceremonies. This is by far the most popular type of bagpipe for sale, and the one which most beginners start with.
Irish Bagpipes
They are more commonly known as Uilleann pipes, a type of Irish bagpipes with a softer and more melodic sound than their cousins in Scotland. They’re used for traditional folk music from Ireland. The pipes are much quieter and more flexible; therefore, musicians can be more intricate with tunes.
Other Variations:
Though Scottish and Irish ones are the most famous, there are other versions across the globe. Some of these varieties include the Northumbrian smallpipes and the Galician gaita. While each has its rich history and unique sound, Scottish bagpipes remain the most iconic.
What to Look for When Buying a Bagpipe
Now that you have become acquainted with the varieties of bagpipes for sale, it’s time to delve into what to look for when buying. Whether online or in-store, some key factors can help you choose the appropriate instrument.
Quality of Materials
Quality is always the most essential element when purchasing any musical instrument. Bagpipes are no exception to this rule. One must have bagpipes made from durable materials, using African blackwood or polyacetal for the drones and chanters.
Do not go for those really cheap imitations which shall be made of inferior woods or plastics; these won’t provide the same quality sound.
Beginner versus Professional Models
When one is scouring through the many different types of bagpipes for sale, a starter is likely to run into models for beginners and professional players. For most learners, an inexpensive set will do. Most of these are normally less complicated and manageable.
But if you are really so keen on playing like an expert, the investment may be just about worth it to bring in rich tones.
Bagpipe Cords
Accessories do not forget about the accessories. The bagpipe cord is a vital piece to hold the drones together but also helps with your pipers style. While often decorative they also serve a functional purpose to hold your bagpipes steady while playing.
Where to Buy Bagpipes
Now that you know what to look for, where should you buy bagpipes? There are plenty of options, both local and online retailers. Each has its advantages.
Online Stores
Some online retailers like Kilt Master sell bagpipes in a wide variety. You can shop online for convenience in comparing prices and reading reviews. Many websites, like Kilt Master, have starter sets that include everything a person starting will need, including cords for the bagpipes, reeds, and carrying cases.
Music Stores Specialized
For those who would rather try before they buy, a specialist music shop may be the way to go. You will have the opportunity to look at a bagpipe and receive recommendations of experienced staff. While the prices might be a little higher than those offered by online sellers, the possibility of testing an instrument is priceless, mainly for beginners.
Local Makers
One can also buy bagpipes from local craftsmen. This route may prove to be rather expensive, but when it comes to the level of craftsmanship, it is unrivaled. If you’re big on tradition, helping the local guys out will guarantee that you will get a very good instrument manufactured with care.
Practice Makes Perfect: The Role of Practice Chanters
Most players, however, do start with a practice chanter, which is a smaller and less complex sibling to the full set of bagpipes. It is a small and less complicated version of the bagpipes, designed especially for learning basic fingering and melody concepts without being overwhelmed by the full instrument.
Why Use a Practice Chanter?
The practice chanter is simply an invaluable piece for a beginner to work the skills needed with the full bagpipes without being overwhelmed. It is much quieter than a full set of bagpipes, which allows you to practice at home without disturbing anyone else nearby.
As with bagpipes for sale, you would want to choose a nice practice chanter. Look for those fabricated from hard-wearing materials and produce a fine sound. Many retailers, like Kilt Master, sell practice chanters and therefore not hard to find even for a beginner.
Other Essential Accessories
In addition to the practice chanter, there are other accessories which you would want to purchase along with your bagpipe. These will enable you to look after your instrument and experience greater ease during playing.
Reeds
Reeds are crucial to the sound of your bagpipes. There are two for the pipes: the drone reeds and the chanter reeds. It is always a good idea to have a few extras of these reeds, so that when they wear out after some time and begin affecting sound quality, one can replace them.
Bagpipe Cords
As mentioned earlier, bagpipe cords serve both functional and ornamental purposes. They keep your drones steady, and you can have them in various styles to suit your fancy. They are available in numerous colors and designs so you can add a little personality to your set of bagpipes.
How to Care for Your Bagpipes
Buying a good set of bagpipes is only half the battle. Proper care and maintenance are needed to keep your instrument in good order for years to come.
Cleaning
Regular cleaning of your bagpipes will maintain both the sound and durability of your instrument. After every use, wipe down the exterior and ensure the bag is dry. Some moisture left on the reeds and the wood may be very destructive.
Storage
Also, when not in use, it is advised to place your bagpipes in a case to prevent them from gathering dust and being exposed to environmental conditions. A good quality carrying case will also come in handy in case you travel with your instrument.
Regular Tuning
Finally, the bagpipe requires regular tuning. Of course, if you are a beginner, then this may be a tricky thing to do, but with time and practice, you will master how to fine-tune your instrument to have the best sound.
The Evolution of Bagpipes in Modern Music
Although the bagpipes are inextricably linked with traditional Scottish and Irish music, they have still broken into more modern genres. A few bands notably pushed the bagpipes onto the scene.
Conclusion: Why Bagpipes are Awesome to Play
Learning to play the bagpipes will give you a sense of achievement and connect you with hundreds of years of heritage. Whether inspired by the magnificent sound of the Great Highland Bagpipes or the softer tone of Irish bagpipes, there will be some bagpipes for sale that will turn out to be ideal for you.
Start with the realization that patience and practice are the two greatest factors in successful bagpiping. Begin with a practice chanter before graduating to the actual pipes. If you apply yourself properly and have the right set of pipes, very soon you will be playing the strong tunes which have resonated across Scotland’s hills for generations.