scots music group

Pipes - Chanter - Absolute Beginner

The place to start if you have ambitions to play the Highland pipes or smallpipes. The class will look at the bagpipe scale, basic embellishments and some simple tunes

Pipes - Scottish Smallpipes - Beginner

For players new to smallpipes. The focus of this class is to build up a competence on smallpipes using a repertoire of simple tunes. Instruction will be given on bellows technique, good maintenance and reed manipulation in order to get the best from your instrument. This class is also recommended for players of all levels who are new to the class to learn the basic repertoire used in the intermediate class. It is recommended that you seek advice from the tutor or other experienced player before ordering a set of smallpipes.

Small-pipes may be available for hire through membership of the Lowland and Borders Pipers’ Society

Pipes - Scottish Smallpipes - Intermediate

This class will focus on the basic repertoire learned in the beginners’ class. We will look at the finer points of technique and phrasing and also introduce some more advanced jigs, and reels etc, particularly tunes that are commonly played at sessions. We will also explore the use of harmonies to enhance tunes.

Click on the picture below to see a short video of Lee’s 2 smallpipe classes rehearsing for the stramash in March 2008

Pipes - Highland Pipes

The class will work on improving embellishments, timing, technique, learning new tunes and working together as a pipe band. We will also concentrate on blowing pipes steadily, bagpipe maintenance and improving starts and finishes when playing pipes. This class is suitable for students who have been playing bagpipes for a year or more, who can already play a few tunes.
It’s easy to transfer classes if you find the class you have enrolled in is going to fast or too slow. Louise is happy to offer guidance on this to new students. We are currently forming the very first ‘Scots Music Group Pipes & Drums’ with the aim of the Bagpipe Class performing as a band together with our Percussion Class at various events next year! The aim of the Bagpipe Class is to play Scotland’s national instrument and have fun!