tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82239708561730099192024-03-18T22:32:29.825-06:00Utah BagpiperUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger41125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8223970856173009919.post-33923321129956114112019-02-07T15:22:00.001-07:002019-02-07T17:55:34.216-07:00New Website!Check out my new website with a new domain, <a href="http://utahbagpiper.com/">utahbagpiper.com</a>! I will continue to post blog entries here, but this site is designed to help people who are looking to hire a bagpiper for their event. It's pretty basic right now, but I will be making additions soon including sound files and some other fun stuff. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8223970856173009919.post-5338583659424017322015-04-03T09:29:00.004-06:002015-04-03T09:29:59.074-06:00Updates are coming!Wow! I can't believe it has been 3 years since my last update. It's time to dust off the cobwebs. Stay tuned for new posts!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8223970856173009919.post-41152155575873105542012-04-02T17:41:00.003-06:002012-04-02T17:43:15.517-06:00Let the 2012 Competition Season Begin!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH7XINnHTpyF1QDgVoJt8Y0zAqlIRuxcS9RNES7MlTW_6LoSeddZg91WnjkZrwtMLzYyEssAklfAJ5eAfVnuLoaj6ibdZiCwykvfDlxPOYQEqNsSIyimAXJzAfvQwYkltoDfCTA150rVE/s1600/phoenix.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH7XINnHTpyF1QDgVoJt8Y0zAqlIRuxcS9RNES7MlTW_6LoSeddZg91WnjkZrwtMLzYyEssAklfAJ5eAfVnuLoaj6ibdZiCwykvfDlxPOYQEqNsSIyimAXJzAfvQwYkltoDfCTA150rVE/s640/phoenix.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Wow, it's been a long time since my last post! Well, as the sun comes out, pipers are beginning to emerge from their basements after a long winter of practice. The 2012 season is under way.<br />
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Last week I traveled to Phoenix with the Wasatch & District Pipe Band where the grade 3 and 4 bands enjoyed a weekend filled with fun and good music. The grade 3 won both the medley and the MSR and a special congratulations are in order for the grade 4 band which won its first contest ever by winning both the times medley and the march medley. Mini band competitions were also offered and WDPB grade 3 and 4 bands took first and second respectively. Soloists also represented the band very well, particularly in piobaireachd, taking first prize in each grade.<br />
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Next up at the end of April is Sacramento. The competition is going to really stiff, so it’s back to work for now. I’m resolving this year to update the blog more frequently, so check in often for the latest updates.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8223970856173009919.post-393035527667526912011-09-21T23:26:00.002-06:002011-09-22T13:56:35.559-06:00Scotland 2011<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiQ6JW1TUhOn8lIHqbZ6l4yCwS4GjonZc5ztLUWYJwCGds77GhnePtPbRC3LoPoq2iHYLhceNVW-mtygPXxU_sE7jENTS0y7OqXZu1eiz8ofCL0c1vgU71pxKzxW7Oa9ZYKM3ijAnbLGg/s1600/CIMG9555.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiQ6JW1TUhOn8lIHqbZ6l4yCwS4GjonZc5ztLUWYJwCGds77GhnePtPbRC3LoPoq2iHYLhceNVW-mtygPXxU_sE7jENTS0y7OqXZu1eiz8ofCL0c1vgU71pxKzxW7Oa9ZYKM3ijAnbLGg/s320/CIMG9555.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
Some time has passed since my last post and the piping season has come to an end. During the last few weeks I’ve had a chance to catch my breath and collect my thoughts on what was truly an epic summer that I will never forget.<br />
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This August I was able to fulfill a dream I’ve had for many years when I traveled to Scotland with the Wasatch & District Pipe Band to compete at the World Pipe Band Championships. To say that this experience was fulfilling would be a huge understatement. Making the pilgrimage to Scotland for the first time and sharing that opportunity with an incredible group of friends and musicians was one the most satisfying and memorable experiences I’ve had as a piper. Great sacrifices, both of time and money were made by so many people to make this trip happen. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJERWh9CRPH3dm296IHlpY_z2Sj5OiqWAgu4etSghpZRaJ5DE2PYs61tQYcWJRqNCnMkTvfBIYR7GflzGchSxKjRi7i6bzhh2c_ChN5RHijQPUzWlOViVpdIY-XrZMmmqrWXaU7tD2oc4/s1600/CIMG9621.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJERWh9CRPH3dm296IHlpY_z2Sj5OiqWAgu4etSghpZRaJ5DE2PYs61tQYcWJRqNCnMkTvfBIYR7GflzGchSxKjRi7i6bzhh2c_ChN5RHijQPUzWlOViVpdIY-XrZMmmqrWXaU7tD2oc4/s320/CIMG9621.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
For myself, simply crossing the big pond for the first time was a surreal experience. Although I had prepared myself somewhat to be let down after having spent so many years constructing a slightly romantic vision of Scotland in my head, I must say that I was not disappointed in the least. I loved seeing, touching, and feeling the rich history and heritage which is so interwoven into the fabric of the country. Although somewhat cliché, I felt very much at home during my short stay in Scotland. It was as if my connection to the culture and the people which had developed over the years through my love of its music made my being there seem very natural. My only regret was not being able to stay longer and experience more of what Scotland had to offer and being able to share the experience with Trisha. I can’t wait to return next time with my family!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWQYBP4IbZCE6WqziZyzIVfVdqooyB0a7zA0PWFXmy2am7tbNRizPiki1bs7Wze2BYIlX7DNLAd4CyFwlF02AnhdX5PKRc1umkLyvABJFimMNR3qV3UHwtvt3rRzXSaLKcSKUX1Jd95aQ/s1600/CIMG9658.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWQYBP4IbZCE6WqziZyzIVfVdqooyB0a7zA0PWFXmy2am7tbNRizPiki1bs7Wze2BYIlX7DNLAd4CyFwlF02AnhdX5PKRc1umkLyvABJFimMNR3qV3UHwtvt3rRzXSaLKcSKUX1Jd95aQ/s320/CIMG9658.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
From a piping standpoint, this trip was the culmination of years of hard work, musical progression, and perseverance. After countless hours practicing, rehearsing, and preparing, the payoff was very fulfilling. Stepping off the line at the worlds was something that I’ll never forget. The band rose to the occasion and played extremely well. <br />
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Earlier in the week, our band had the tremendous honor and privilege to share the stage with the then current world champions, the Saint Lawrence O’Toole Pipe Band and the six time world champions Simon Fraser University Pipe Band in front of a huge and appreciative crowd at the Pipes for Peace Concert in Glasgow. Not only did the band play very respectably, but we got several good reviews from highly respected figures in the piping world, in particular, praising our band’s interpretation of the piobaireachd, Mackintosh’s Lament. Not too shabby for a band from Utah! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggM-_34cpEhO0mCSOGq0GaEHwCCoM7-fl1e1oAZ9j3637DS8lvczH_aili_pqypOHLcEzM162sNOk4uffBT6ys6F6w2nNhf60nQgu92xL9cJFD-z6o1g08pyA3J6kHRN7hestbliQXhyphenhyphen8/s1600/concert.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggM-_34cpEhO0mCSOGq0GaEHwCCoM7-fl1e1oAZ9j3637DS8lvczH_aili_pqypOHLcEzM162sNOk4uffBT6ys6F6w2nNhf60nQgu92xL9cJFD-z6o1g08pyA3J6kHRN7hestbliQXhyphenhyphen8/s320/concert.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Another highlight for me during my stay in Scotland was being able to rub shoulders with and listen to some of the best pipers in the world every day. During the entire week, the Piping Live international festival featured competitions, recitals, and countless other events that allowed each participant to immerse themselves deeply in the best piping the world has to offer. Among the highlights for me was a recital given by Gordon Walker at the College of Piping. To hear Gordon playing “Lament for the Children” was a real treat I will never forget. I was also able to attend the Silver Cap Competition featuring Willie McCallum, Gordon Walker, Stuart Liddell, Angus McColl, Jamie Troy, and Alex Gandy. World class solo piping at its best! <br />
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Although the solo piping was outstanding, the week was truly a celebration of the pipe band. In addition to hearing SFU and SLOT at the Pipes for Peace Concert, many other grade one bands performed throughout the week and opened their rehearsals to the public. One of the highlights for me was being able to attend a FMM practice the day before the worlds, which they ended up winning! Wasatch & District Pipe Band was lined up directly behind FMM during the announcement that they had won the worlds. That was another cool moment that will stick with me for a long time. These grade one bands truly are inspirational to listen too. I can’t think of another musical hobby where the average player has so many opportunities to rub shoulders with the best in the world. It really is such a small world wide community that we are lucky enough to be part of. <br />
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I addition to the piping, we managed to fill the entire week with a lot of travel and sightseeing as well. It truly was an epic trip that I will always look back on as one of the highlights of my life. I wish to thank all the members of the band for their friendship and camaraderie, without which, this entire experience would not have been nearly as fulfilling. The band really has become almost a second family to me. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf2-w8dgTvgr8jXm0Q9trwbxz3QU9ZFH1gcmfYbdMx9wL0DJJtut1lI92tQlM56pVlj0HurnDJ-vqJmLc0lzfmo7NlRd6G4K_XId-r0AQw55TfoPx1mx18GqIKSPqI1AJRhW8XXGoKQgw/s1600/CIMG9959.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf2-w8dgTvgr8jXm0Q9trwbxz3QU9ZFH1gcmfYbdMx9wL0DJJtut1lI92tQlM56pVlj0HurnDJ-vqJmLc0lzfmo7NlRd6G4K_XId-r0AQw55TfoPx1mx18GqIKSPqI1AJRhW8XXGoKQgw/s320/CIMG9959.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Lastly, after returning home from Scotland, the band turned right around and headed to Pleasanton to complete the season on a high note. Scotland will always be seen as the focal point of the season, but the entire year has been full of memorable and rewarding experiences. The band continues to charge forward and is making great musical strides. Although the season is just concluding, I am already excited with anticipation for next season!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8223970856173009919.post-32853300711031953972011-06-13T20:31:00.000-06:002011-06-13T20:31:45.800-06:00Thanksgiving Point 2011<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ujlmS_YmnbxksBstYhCtAA-8gtvxmo8AvUfRS5sfKZ0kue9sK_3rPDN3MNN08qcEzIiRQN8zIPr0XCHAEOt6xD44M8UIKBRWXUWocRHb20hWhRHb9WT7urGubA6S9p9Im5lPxroeFEI/s1600/thanksgiving+point.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ujlmS_YmnbxksBstYhCtAA-8gtvxmo8AvUfRS5sfKZ0kue9sK_3rPDN3MNN08qcEzIiRQN8zIPr0XCHAEOt6xD44M8UIKBRWXUWocRHb20hWhRHb9WT7urGubA6S9p9Im5lPxroeFEI/s400/thanksgiving+point.jpg" t8="true" width="400" /></a></div>This past weekend was the annual Utah Scottish Society Highland Games at Thanksgiving Point in Lehi, Ut. The entire weekend was extremely enjoyable with perfect weather. The Wasatch & District Pipe Band was the duty band again this year. We took part in the tattoo Friday night as well as several concert type showcases on Saturday. There were more bands attending this year than I can remember in recent years, which was fantastic and a great sign for local piping. The grade 4 contest was very strong with a high standard of playing. Congratulations to the Salt Lake Scots for winning the timed and march medleys. Unfortunately, no other grade 3 bands were in attendance, but the band still performed both the MSR and Medley for critique only. We felt that both runs were an improvement over Costa Mesa just a couple weeks earlier. Hopefully we can continue our progression all the way to Scotland! Stay tuned for updates. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8223970856173009919.post-65606772789136132322011-06-02T17:06:00.007-06:002011-06-02T17:11:32.167-06:00Costa Mesa 2011<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV5AT5jDIeJQpWcGF1OrYQFfjxBW_sH3BtFVPl0zWcpebyHFu1D6jSAu3WGEdj2ZsUl12uLpsRj7DSBt6L0sQprLctElG9aJDThiD8c0_nqkV-aOc8gaTQRJ6w4gHaNiXkvs6BI4zwwbI/s1600/costa+mesa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="367" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV5AT5jDIeJQpWcGF1OrYQFfjxBW_sH3BtFVPl0zWcpebyHFu1D6jSAu3WGEdj2ZsUl12uLpsRj7DSBt6L0sQprLctElG9aJDThiD8c0_nqkV-aOc8gaTQRJ6w4gHaNiXkvs6BI4zwwbI/s400/costa+mesa.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: large; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">This past weekend was the Costa Mesa highland games in southern California for the Wasatch and District pipe band.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A little California sun, good friends, and good music always equals good times for everyone!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDJVHjsiac6_8MycPEJ-6KrR4QmaVUEpnPoCCAv2-lN6MN7SJl3XVf-lUu-cpSmpDupBbSUsyVNiLM3EaomSaNYjKfUy-2FAFQsOSpfyhcr_IkGhUg0ikn7WSAskVmfRtowHlXIR5l4c/s1600/beachcostamesa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDJVHjsiac6_8MycPEJ-6KrR4QmaVUEpnPoCCAv2-lN6MN7SJl3XVf-lUu-cpSmpDupBbSUsyVNiLM3EaomSaNYjKfUy-2FAFQsOSpfyhcr_IkGhUg0ikn7WSAskVmfRtowHlXIR5l4c/s400/beachcostamesa.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">The band played pretty well overall and had some great results, but we also realize that we still have a lot of work to do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now that we’ve passed Memorial Day, summer is officially here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The band turns its attention to local shows and competitions, all the while preparing with great focus for the world championships this August in Scotland!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The band has been working very hard and we are all very excited about the progress we’ve made so far this year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Check back in for updates!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div></div><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8223970856173009919.post-76754574434622615862011-04-08T21:06:00.002-06:002011-04-08T22:10:57.991-06:00De-Mystifying Bagpipe Setup and Maintenance<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjJi-IiOiGz84W14u3lT7MMeRVVYhoj3M_SsqU_8z9cbNFRXbc_49mWt8FfxxovupNRtuDXc81Gl6fYALBCTheXOMV5I3c48QoRHr4sdXSZo7ODvM9-3zJSQGQ9mViOoBdkQrhamSVdWE/s1600/brett_tidswell_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjJi-IiOiGz84W14u3lT7MMeRVVYhoj3M_SsqU_8z9cbNFRXbc_49mWt8FfxxovupNRtuDXc81Gl6fYALBCTheXOMV5I3c48QoRHr4sdXSZo7ODvM9-3zJSQGQ9mViOoBdkQrhamSVdWE/s400/brett_tidswell_001.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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I recently had the opportunity of acquiring “The Bagpipe Instruction Manual “ by Brett Tisdswell. Not to be confused with the more comprehensive “Complete Piper’s Handbook”, this smaller, 32 page, manual was designed to provide as much useful information on bagpipe setup and maintenance as possible into a small, portable, booklet that can be thrown into the pipe case and reviewed at a moment’s notice. <br />
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Anyone who knows me knows that I am a complete nut when it comes to bagpipe maintenance. I have always felt that there is a special relationship and connection between the piper and his/her instrument. The time and energy one invests in learning and caring for the pipe will be returned many times in the form of a pipe that sounds great and is reliable and dependable every time. I have long been a fan of Brett’s schoolofpiping.com site and have found it a great resource for anyone who is interested in bagpipe care and maintenance. <br />
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I was actually very surprised with how much information Brett was able to cram into so few pages. Although similar in appearance to the old classic “Piper’s Handbook” by Pipe Major John MacLellan, I found the “Bagpipe Instruction Manual” to cover more topics and to be much more in depth. There is no time spent covering history or other topics. The book is 100% focused on providing clear and helpful information. It also contains many helpful photos, including detailed instructions on tying hemp bridles for cane reeds, diagrams of how to alter chanter reeds, and many others.<br />
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I think this book will become required reading for all of my students. The bagpipe can be an intimidating beast for a new player. This book provides a clear list of all the “must haves” for your pipe box, instructions on drone cords, bags, bag covers, valves, moisture control, reed basics, and many other topics. All very helpful for the novice player. Having said this, the book also contains enough valuable information to make it very much worthwhile to the intermediate to advanced players. The largest portion of the book is dedicated solely to reed trouble shooting and manipulation, both for drones and chanter. Pretty much every possible problem is addressed, and simple, helpful solutions are provided for each. It certainly goes well beyond the basics and is probably the best I’ve seen in the form of a small, comprehensive maintenance and setup guide. Certainly a worthwhile resource to have available for any piper. There is also some mention of matters of refinement, pitch, tone, and tuning positions, but readers are referred to the “Complete Piper’s Handbook” for more in depth discussion on these issues. <br />
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I appreciate this book because it helps take a lot of the mystery and superstition out of bagpipe setup. Certainly some these techniques take time to master, but many other tips can be applied immediately and become a great help to the player. There is no reason in this day and age that pipers of any ability cannot have a well set up, reliable, and pleasant instrument to enjoy. For those looking for a compact, clear, and comprehensive guide to “de-mystifying” bagpipe setup and maintenance, or simply looking to learn a few new tricks to have a better sounding bagpipe, this book is a must for the pipe case.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8223970856173009919.post-70222609286552472592011-03-16T11:43:00.006-06:002011-03-16T22:56:44.629-06:00Can competitive pipers actually ENJOY bagpipe music?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1qzIxTz6Lg4PYC7_FuDYx5qHKBCnzhbMf8LS2Z5Sx2bwsEfdfIZo1YO5LF58ASWpvxpYI-TfZ39jos3e4gCHbHmMaIqPD6NzsOVGktSG07vDSQITSmAjQcYFhMuNoD6ofIktLYnRHL5k/s1600/birl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="183" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1qzIxTz6Lg4PYC7_FuDYx5qHKBCnzhbMf8LS2Z5Sx2bwsEfdfIZo1YO5LF58ASWpvxpYI-TfZ39jos3e4gCHbHmMaIqPD6NzsOVGktSG07vDSQITSmAjQcYFhMuNoD6ofIktLYnRHL5k/s200/birl.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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I have a problem. I love the bagpipes and would like to think that I love good bagpipe music. Having been trained in the competitive tradition from the beginning, I find it very difficult not to be critical of even the best piping out there. I love to talk piping with my piping friends. A typical conversation might go along the lines of: <br />
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“Did you listen to (insert a top 3 band)’s medley at the worlds? Yeah, did you hear that under-blown B in the slow air? That was terrible! Yeah, and they just haven’t been bringing the sound the last couple of years, I mean, their chanters sound thin on the top hand and they aren’t getting the same blending with the drones as (insert other top 3 band). Their medley really lacks creativity and is very predictable.”<br />
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This is just a fabricated example, but is not too different from conversations I have all the time. The other day I was doing some soul searching, so to speak, about why I play the pipes. Are pipers really in love with the music, or are they just obsessed with getting better and succeeding at competition? When I listen to a good piping album I noticed that it is very difficult for me to listen without fingering along and analyzing every bit of technique or subconsciously thinking about how I would handle that technique if I were playing. At the same time I’m listening to the drones and chanter, the steadiness, the intonation, the blowing, etc., etc. When I get around to actually listening to the MUSIC, it’s really more of an analysis of phrasing, timing, etc. rather than enjoying the emotional experience of music.<br />
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I love bagpipe music, but how can I re-learn to actually listen to the MUSIC, rather than merely analyzing the conglomerate of elements that are going into the music. If I could keep the skill and knowledge I have now, but go back to the mind frame when I was a beginner and find that passion I used to have for the music I think this journey would be more fulfilling. It’s not that I don’t enjoy it, I’m obsessed with it, it’s just that I wish I could hear the MUSIC in the music again. <br />
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This is not a knock on competitive piping, it’s forever linked to piping tradition. I love competitive piping and get much fulfillment from it. It’s just that sometimes I feel like more of an athlete and not a musician. <br />
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Am I alone in feeling like this? Is it even possible to change this frame of mind? I want to listen without fingering along. I want to listen without thinking about technique. And it’s not just limited to listening. I want to re-learn how to play MUSIC, and not just play technique, tone, and phrasing. Can this be done? If so… how?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8223970856173009919.post-39731348359203596282011-03-08T17:55:00.006-07:002011-03-08T19:15:29.922-07:00A Little Piece of Piping Lore<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp6qXkyTbGUUZJ5tjy4d6nDR181lYLjTQak5wMVTyjFrbn6s63H30-f8-wmxtP9lgKKFD7KlRWlfjHngCpNcS5n16d8W1LV4w_pq_1HzbnYs2TaV4a5z3Z0NArCMiJJMuPdA1nE-4QpRg/s1600/oban-competitors-1950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp6qXkyTbGUUZJ5tjy4d6nDR181lYLjTQak5wMVTyjFrbn6s63H30-f8-wmxtP9lgKKFD7KlRWlfjHngCpNcS5n16d8W1LV4w_pq_1HzbnYs2TaV4a5z3Z0NArCMiJJMuPdA1nE-4QpRg/s400/oban-competitors-1950.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMhYVfHO7NXKScsQO2TdFiXxInKlQKUTfAcyIwfwN7SoXkL0ks4Z-Cyre408Zv3lRkTNmcrdr7xujOi5-38uWIhs7zikwQtREKHSUbTChYWTcy3zdDXG8vK-41EeD5gmieId9ssIG4bLc/s1600/John-Burgess%252C-Willie-Ross-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="325" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMhYVfHO7NXKScsQO2TdFiXxInKlQKUTfAcyIwfwN7SoXkL0ks4Z-Cyre408Zv3lRkTNmcrdr7xujOi5-38uWIhs7zikwQtREKHSUbTChYWTcy3zdDXG8vK-41EeD5gmieId9ssIG4bLc/s400/John-Burgess%252C-Willie-Ross-8.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
As many of you know by now, I am fascinated with piping history. Here is an interesting little piece. The first picture is of competitors at the Argyllshire Gathering at Oban in 1950. The Skinny, young looking fellow third from the right is the legendary piper John D Burgess at 16 years of age. That year he won the Gold Medal at the Argyllshire Gathering and the Northern Meeting at Inverness on his first attempt, a feat that has gone down in piping lore and is unlikely to be repeated. <br />
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The second photo shows Burgess with his mentor and instructor, the great Willie Ross. Burgess and Ross went on a tour of America and Canada where they entertained North American audiences.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8223970856173009919.post-23711062502136797672011-01-21T09:06:00.001-07:002011-01-21T13:25:52.884-07:00Piper's Persuasion<a href="http://www.piperspersuasion.com/">http://www.piperspersuasion.com/</a><br />
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Here is a fantastic site that I happened upon the other day. This is a gold mine of information in interview form from some of the worlds very best pipers. So far I've only had time to listen to the interview with Willie McCallum. Wille provided some great insights into practice methods and competition preparation as well as some very interesting details about his piping background.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRi543tAZG9IzZVFsG8cLOe-YXj1i-igV8MElPGQDQGd0J5P7LL9ycjijGMLcUnVmU2nqDRsgpbSdD5ufn8QJ4M6aXfhwBumHQlMX_KHelZw7gUueCoflrGrnrN3T8vwzSXLJeOi2Yq1o/s1600/Willie+Trophies3.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRi543tAZG9IzZVFsG8cLOe-YXj1i-igV8MElPGQDQGd0J5P7LL9ycjijGMLcUnVmU2nqDRsgpbSdD5ufn8QJ4M6aXfhwBumHQlMX_KHelZw7gUueCoflrGrnrN3T8vwzSXLJeOi2Yq1o/s400/Willie+Trophies3.bmp" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8223970856173009919.post-46830114743593057762011-01-18T18:58:00.001-07:002011-01-18T18:59:55.972-07:00How many can you name?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpFDoBzxKMsSiT_lAFPOS2U1kJq4nQNq8W0hGgm2JP_7nQdHYvaIdandzi6TiQXIB2Kke5MAXLdq50rSPKZCJ3rVjKVlcsjzPV1rWKjQgzoQw8g0YD-E7riEhjgN2efyBoze4mlqhxs-E/s1600/glenfiddich-1986.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="295" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpFDoBzxKMsSiT_lAFPOS2U1kJq4nQNq8W0hGgm2JP_7nQdHYvaIdandzi6TiQXIB2Kke5MAXLdq50rSPKZCJ3rVjKVlcsjzPV1rWKjQgzoQw8g0YD-E7riEhjgN2efyBoze4mlqhxs-E/s400/glenfiddich-1986.jpg" /></a></div><br />
This is a great photo I came across of the 1986 glenfiddich competitors. You may recognize many familiar faces. How many can you name?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8223970856173009919.post-36251861425239952852010-11-22T22:21:00.004-07:002010-11-22T23:18:30.147-07:00In the preparation lies the success...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhID1mqMm03lMlpwIndinY9dBsbFdYeQYNfo9dxCmvHPLJp3wvLLlxNJTy_KiYC9Pfgwfu2tltZlaffc9HCjtthFCxYY_eSIzphsAAdb3Lj5yunginaQqVcV_g4JHAf9-JL6PNq3kdyiM/s1600/wasatch.bmp"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhID1mqMm03lMlpwIndinY9dBsbFdYeQYNfo9dxCmvHPLJp3wvLLlxNJTy_KiYC9Pfgwfu2tltZlaffc9HCjtthFCxYY_eSIzphsAAdb3Lj5yunginaQqVcV_g4JHAf9-JL6PNq3kdyiM/s400/wasatch.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542611205183279554" /></a><br /><br />Another great season of piping has come and gone and the winter season is upon us. For many pipers, the summer was full of long hours hard practicing and many weekends full of performances, parades, travel, and competitions. <br /><br />Although very rewarding, it's easy to get burned out after such a taxing schedule. It is natural to let up on the playing for a bit after such a long season. Remember, however, that the offseason is the most important time of the year for a piper who wishes to progress. Use this time to reflect on your progression as a player and to set goals for the upcoming year. Don't let your pipe box collect dust. If you don't play your pipes regularly you will risk taking a step back. Instead, carry the momentum you have achieved forward into the new year.<br /><br />Here are a couple suggestions for the off season:<br /><br />Play your pipes as often as possible. The practice chanter has its place, but I don't recall the last time I performed with one. You worked hard over the summer to feel comfortable playing for long periods of time, that hard work can be lost in as little as two weeks without playing. Keep it up!<br /><br />Go back to basics. Have any bits of technique been getting you down? Now is a great time to pull out "Rhythmic Fingerwork" and hammer out these bits so they don't get in the way of your music.<br /><br />These investments now will pay great dividends next spring and summer. Keep up the good work!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8223970856173009919.post-75577627904114715532010-08-04T13:04:00.006-06:002010-08-04T13:13:12.056-06:00Enumclaw 2010<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUp76sTVqQ5PTb8khTk47PqHfFQzXavuOvzIB4acLmLFhCsMge1MUlheuq7m1eRhz4ZDzCL6ZzhBDITyLuspAZEFnFSJOSAvOu-YeX8nLdx0h9KsX9nNMlivt6Z59naJkt_WeqI9-BlRE/s1600/sfu+2010.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501634173591276258" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUp76sTVqQ5PTb8khTk47PqHfFQzXavuOvzIB4acLmLFhCsMge1MUlheuq7m1eRhz4ZDzCL6ZzhBDITyLuspAZEFnFSJOSAvOu-YeX8nLdx0h9KsX9nNMlivt6Z59naJkt_WeqI9-BlRE/s400/sfu+2010.jpg" /></a><br /><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfYxoILJpbrvSbhjVaQWu3yrTIjwQX86zVWIyYGIbyeG0h4QuceCK5rC4ThCKbvuegI-0-m2OMPn7qBO6NOx4XN7qxRNX5jZgny65W8JFmGZEDOUYuivuxSJTZtmuA-Cp4EyD2Dc1NaNw/s1600/jack+lee.jpg"></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnY4O_rZUQdzIxAn-SCH9TUsNeXXoiCgNlQTE69sQdz6gZBhUHInUX9iwx2F1PsMNyD_KIUjcfFgfCBXrHlJ334AnNCj0N8sk4DvOwXufVec5HEt23IuxsgIOw3WmJLlf9VwUnBEi57qA/s1600/sfu+2010.jpg"></a><br /><br /><br /><div><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div><br />This past weekend was the Pacific Northwest Highland Gathering in Enumclaw Washington. I competed with the Wasatch and District grade 3 and was generally happy with how the band played. We received many positive comments from judges and spectators alike; however, there is always much room for improvement. Competitive piping is as much a mental game as it is physical. Sometimes a split second loss of focus can be the difference between where you want to be and where you actually end up. The band is making huge strides this year and I am hoping that all the pieces will come together next month at Pleasanton, which is the largest and final competition of the year for us.<br /><br />Other than playing, the highlight of the weekend was listening to all of the world class pipers and drummers. The current world champions, SFU, as well as the very impressive grade 1 band, Dowco Triumph Street were in attendance and put on a spectacular show for all who were lucky enough to witness it.<br /><br />The professional solo class was very well represented and the competitions were a real treat. The highlight for me was listening to the professional piobaireachd competition. World famous piper, Jack Lee, won the competition with a captivating performance of “The Unjust Incarceration”. Piobaireachd played at this level has an amazing ability to move the listener. Many members of the newly formed Utah Piobaireachd Society were in attendance and soaking in all of the world class performances. <br /><br />We have the rare treat as pipers to be able to rub shoulders with the very best in the world and this weekend was no exception. The playing was an extremely high caliber and several performances will certainly leave a lasting impact on me as I continue to strive to be a better player.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8223970856173009919.post-56321333092557466082010-07-15T13:42:00.004-06:002010-07-16T13:18:52.620-06:00The Competition Season is Upon Us!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR9tvZajzEwThab2k1Jb__V29SFAHaHsouDRE-VijQU3aT6_EwWKVJhnB9LjXtIWWOzXKn6DXaVMLQeLHuBEjbNO2-3Qbj5CMOk3N9dRgarMNtchV_jsUccbCX26tPq8L9PsXrEVWaED8/s1600/mass+bands.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5494585703214362610" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR9tvZajzEwThab2k1Jb__V29SFAHaHsouDRE-VijQU3aT6_EwWKVJhnB9LjXtIWWOzXKn6DXaVMLQeLHuBEjbNO2-3Qbj5CMOk3N9dRgarMNtchV_jsUccbCX26tPq8L9PsXrEVWaED8/s400/mass+bands.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBuDwtDIrixKy-UyO6neqswvUjwuz9jmME_peXRE9-b3pmm1_SAKgVIyPibcewnGtztQG0ET2vAFBeNHO1G4yEI7UZAll1yIF3YL2m1Ud2djlaoytAGC85qamA9y4TdBwYdtjkH3KMmV0/s1600/band.jpg"></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The competition season has been underway for some time now and is just beginning to heat up. I would like to congratulate all the bands in Utah for their hard work and dedication. That hard work is really paying off and the standard of playing is rising in our area.<br /><br />This year, in addition to playing with the Mt. Timpanogos Pipe Band, I have had the great pleasure of playing with the Wasatch and District Pipe Band (grade 3). The band is sounding great and it’s very rewarding to experience the fruit of all the hard work and practice. After several preliminary competitions in Utah and Las Vegas, the competition really starts to heat up as we will be heading to Enumclaw, WA and then to Pleasanton, CA to conclude the competitive year. The band is looking forward to the challenge.<br /><br />As you reflect upon the season, remember, no matter what the results of your band or solo competitions, be humble, gracious, and enjoy the experience. We all have good days and bad days. I’ve been on both sides of the spectrum many times and it’s easy to have a poor attitude. We represent a great tradition and I believe that it’s important to show respect for our craft by acting gracefully in winning and defeat. Always try to learn something valuable, and most of all, have fun!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8223970856173009919.post-66146218956223668732010-04-12T17:47:00.005-06:002010-04-12T17:55:33.951-06:00What is your all time favorite piping album?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNR2lQ8_bLw7lApQ0SZ5nAjna4lQimLYyrIeHGfslagDzI1fMGQuD66xEilAki_YYX1xXf0c-qm52Cg7QzqAuptBDFjpTPXEav08z0imTsGfJg5ozEeYGfRSHKyRt8t3zPf1bCbllEQvg/s1600/sfu+alive.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 250px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNR2lQ8_bLw7lApQ0SZ5nAjna4lQimLYyrIeHGfslagDzI1fMGQuD66xEilAki_YYX1xXf0c-qm52Cg7QzqAuptBDFjpTPXEav08z0imTsGfJg5ozEeYGfRSHKyRt8t3zPf1bCbllEQvg/s400/sfu+alive.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459402023158677954" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />That’s a tough question. There are so many stellar albums to choose from. Solo vs. band? Traditional vs. contemporary? Piobaieachd vs. light music? Pure piping vs. mixed instrumental? I have favorites in all of these genres, but over the years the ones that tend to get the most play time are the live pipe band concert albums. I love the tangible energy that comes across in the recording from the crowd as well as the feel of adrenaline in the music that is a product of live performances. <br /><br />With so many stellar live concert albums to choose from, narrowing it down to one choice is a difficult order. If I were to base my pick on sentimentality and sheer enjoyment, the clear winner for me is Simon Fraser University’s “Alive in America” album. <br /><br />Although not as well known or acclaimed as their “Live at Carnegie Hall” album recorded two years later, “Alive in America” captures the band on a high right after their first win at the worlds in 1995 and shortly before repeating in ‘96. The album is almost entirely pure pipe band playing with no tricks or gimmicks. From the opening track the bright tone and extremely musical playing draws you in and holds your interest until the last note is played, leaving you wanting more. <br /> <br />I practically wore out my walkman listening to the cassette tape of this album over and over during the formative years when I was just starting out on the pipes. Listening to the album today is somewhat sentimental because it brings back the feelings I had then, when my sheer excitement to play the pipes and passion for the music was in its formative stages. Whereas I am more prone now to listen with a critical ear, back then I was utterly awestruck with the brilliant and seemingly impossible music which seemed to be flowing so effortlessly.<br /><br />Part of the reason why I find this album so enjoyable is that it helps me to remember those feelings I had and the passion for the music which is so easily overlooked in the ever obsessive and sometimes frustrating quest that is piping. I certainly don’t expect this album to have the same effect on you as it does on me, but by all means I recommend you pick it up if you can find it. You won’t be disappointed.<br /><br />What is your favorite piping album and why?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8223970856173009919.post-75765666535630613192010-03-30T23:39:00.006-06:002010-03-30T23:50:27.020-06:00Diligence and Labor...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIXwpdh5_g8EuuU9dUAvQGuMEKLtxUmYjiSLSpb3veUuhZz0cyIZudgQAJKBvBMvC3IwJotYjcz-9a0cSp6eH0iYQQ6c70mpMnMZGLZUy2NtH_A3zU2NbHtP-uhSopVPkB_XOXzuWCZ3M/s1600/angus-macdonald4.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 254px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454668499464978466" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIXwpdh5_g8EuuU9dUAvQGuMEKLtxUmYjiSLSpb3veUuhZz0cyIZudgQAJKBvBMvC3IwJotYjcz-9a0cSp6eH0iYQQ6c70mpMnMZGLZUy2NtH_A3zU2NbHtP-uhSopVPkB_XOXzuWCZ3M/s400/angus-macdonald4.jpg" /></a><br /><div>"Always recollect that excellence of any sort is beyond the reach of indolence. If you allow yourself to believe that it is impossible for you to do what you see others perform, your despair will not allow you to succeed... facility will always come with diligence and labor."</div><div></div><div><br />-Lt. John McLennan writing to his pupil and son G.S. McLennan, widely regarded as one of the most talented musical prodigies to ever lift a pipe.</div><div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8223970856173009919.post-62094474419185294402010-01-18T20:49:00.010-07:002010-01-18T21:05:54.301-07:00Utah Piobaireachd Club<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQm9B-h-lzYZczJnEyGzcLuXZVTrkDuC8SfAT0rj3np0P9FRYjRjOtVS3KZpst4hBDeRnxFi2XtBz8wj0GHmDNUw64jhv9-1FrD_IYwkAP0IQYSYL6fv5QaivT5Qvjgw3tGrN1h72AbDY/s1600-h/rubrown_profile.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428293220836344098" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQm9B-h-lzYZczJnEyGzcLuXZVTrkDuC8SfAT0rj3np0P9FRYjRjOtVS3KZpst4hBDeRnxFi2XtBz8wj0GHmDNUw64jhv9-1FrD_IYwkAP0IQYSYL6fv5QaivT5Qvjgw3tGrN1h72AbDY/s400/rubrown_profile.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The Utah <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">piobaireachd</span> club recently had its third meeting. The club was formed in order to "advocate and promote scholarship, instruction and inquiry within the form of Highland Bagpipe music known as <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Piobaireachd</span>, Pibroch, and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Ceol</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Mor</span>."</div><div></div><div><br />The first three meetings have been informal gatherings of local <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">piobaireachd</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">enthusiasts. The strucure has been as follows: learn a new tune together on chanters followed by a recitle of tunes on pipes by those who desire to participate. The results have been most enjoyable and informative. If you are interested in attending, follow the club on facebook and its blog page to learn about the next meeting.</span></div><div><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected"><a href="http://www.utahpibroch.blogspot.com/">utahpibroch.blogspot.com</a></span></div><div><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected"></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8223970856173009919.post-18824780698045794982009-11-19T21:47:00.007-07:002009-11-20T17:53:11.401-07:00Test your knowledge!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqkAFJJ7jlzQO9b3R4UmbX5wMalxgHDTXEq-VeTwqyfY6KcuM2JKuHp3gnjmnWIvjW5-D1gV9IPdACgrWOFW949HB4r2RVCnrns9T_9FWYS1HI8WoytxI3JGHNd_vbO8mkqV_Pf0YVnfM/s1600/john-maclellan4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406043083416025698" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 304px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqkAFJJ7jlzQO9b3R4UmbX5wMalxgHDTXEq-VeTwqyfY6KcuM2JKuHp3gnjmnWIvjW5-D1gV9IPdACgrWOFW949HB4r2RVCnrns9T_9FWYS1HI8WoytxI3JGHNd_vbO8mkqV_Pf0YVnfM/s400/john-maclellan4.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div><br /><p>Ok Pipers... How well do you know your piping history?</p><p>Can you name any of the piping legends in this photo? Several were among the most prominent piping figures of the 20th century. Hint, not all of them are playing...</p><p></p><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8223970856173009919.post-83098206136868324012009-11-07T14:40:00.003-07:002009-11-07T14:47:11.655-07:00Staurt Liddell captures the Bratach Gorm<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl0zIQx7zeSZKMf1E1D8btF78VhlmjjVRDWM2sW2haurQVeDbokfMHSIJVBDH-9V0YfX_15AjEdVbufx8QHw9Ptc-iimG7nn-8kLiuqJM2j0sKXAQPYYQ-UITes9c3Zd9_pZl4wNcTk_E/s1600-h/stuart.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401480225020353746" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl0zIQx7zeSZKMf1E1D8btF78VhlmjjVRDWM2sW2haurQVeDbokfMHSIJVBDH-9V0YfX_15AjEdVbufx8QHw9Ptc-iimG7nn-8kLiuqJM2j0sKXAQPYYQ-UITes9c3Zd9_pZl4wNcTk_E/s400/stuart.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Stuart <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Liddell</span> continued his stellar competitive 2009 year by winning the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Bratach</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Gorm</span>. Held in London, the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Bratach</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Gorm</span> competition is organized by the Scottish Piping Society of London and is a qualifier for the 2010 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Glenfiddich</span>.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8223970856173009919.post-22252921872802213712009-11-06T00:05:00.006-07:002009-11-07T18:38:58.652-07:00The Glenfiddich Piping Championship<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpRYt3Q-KLk4xu4FG3tgbTOZW_exaB4f8TtdKB31NO_sbNnnxn21BB1wyJyd8IUNo4THeLNaHHNX23clpBOnQ23u5fCGo-aLPYtZknezYtGenSce3DEpflUES_nXg56BawJsHwU_nkTUs/s1600-h/Glenfiddich.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401541200452095618" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 280px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpRYt3Q-KLk4xu4FG3tgbTOZW_exaB4f8TtdKB31NO_sbNnnxn21BB1wyJyd8IUNo4THeLNaHHNX23clpBOnQ23u5fCGo-aLPYtZknezYtGenSce3DEpflUES_nXg56BawJsHwU_nkTUs/s400/Glenfiddich.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1J6DWgvAaG8uZfLzeGY2r_7sK9d6EVAvbC0qpoAmAjRMehY22AlAgnVzBZLpVCdR0D5rIjk8vvOS8PwQg0d-P69NrBlHeyZsJ38-HF1ubXM68ro6hMuvBkEwwqU1QnbXDsupGUdPejtc/s1600-h/Stuart-Liddel---small.jpg"></a><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> </div><div><br />Stuart <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Liddell</span> has long been one of my favorite pipers. His relaxed, yet deadly accurate execution and tasteful musical arrangements and interpretations coupled with a flawless, sweet pipe has always been a standard by which I have only dreamed of aspiring to. Although Stuart has often been better known for his "kitchenpiping" style of playing, his knowlege and ability of the more traditional disciplines of piobaireachd and MSR playing rank up there with the repected masters of our generation.<br /><br />Stuart accomplished yet another milestone in his stellar piping career by winning the 2009 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Glenfiddich</span> Champion at the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Glenfiddich</span> Invitational Solo Piping Championships held at Blair Castle. His first time winning the prize, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Liddell</span> concluded an amazing year that included the Northern Meeting Clasp and sweeping every grade two event with the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Inveraray</span> & District Pipe Band as Pipe-Major, assuring the bands promotion to grade 1.<br /><br />Roddy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">MacLeod</span> of Glasgow won the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Piobaireachd</span> event for an record eighth time, with Bruce Gandy of Canada as runner up. Willie <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">McCallum</span> of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Bearsden</span>, Scotland, took home the MSR and narrowly missed winning a ninth overall title.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8223970856173009919.post-13717151122002210272009-10-19T17:33:00.004-06:002009-10-19T17:53:20.320-06:00Great Basin Piping Workshops<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqPM4JFp6O0KO1Ynn0yTSfT-atyozrriltFkKrdFwonywlHw4b5sgGZR908aj-zsn1odcteOtEIDE5mM8YDpc4Y1NGrXDGrsMEL8VJ0UbHUSzeoB2CaQNtSrBtMwf-7BIDGpA5P2L2KZI/s1600-h/bob.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394458829982796386" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqPM4JFp6O0KO1Ynn0yTSfT-atyozrriltFkKrdFwonywlHw4b5sgGZR908aj-zsn1odcteOtEIDE5mM8YDpc4Y1NGrXDGrsMEL8VJ0UbHUSzeoB2CaQNtSrBtMwf-7BIDGpA5P2L2KZI/s400/bob.jpg" border="0" /></a> This past weekend pipers from Utah and Idaho were treated to two days of insightful instruction from world renowned pipers, composers, adjudicators, and educators Bob <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Worrall</span> and Ann Gray.<br /><br />Bob is respected around the piping world for his knowledge of the music and is one of the few North Americans to have judged such competitions as the Northern Meeting, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Oban</span>, and the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Bratach</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Gorm</span>. Most recently, pipers may recognise Bob as the voice of the BBC piping commentary during the World Championship broadcast.<br /><br />Those in attendance were treated with a rare opportunity to gain some insight into a higher level of playing, appreciation, and understanding of the great music we are fortunate to play.<br /><br />Thanks to the organizers of this great event. I hope there are many similar events in the future.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8223970856173009919.post-15506368942870308892009-08-18T17:19:00.008-06:002009-08-18T19:24:37.135-06:00Deja Vu for SFU!<a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/scotland/music/worlds/2009/"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgksUWYFQnOqoGONVWIermCCPfJ6eQmUgx0p0d38jLe3XFgnFInUqQJ2wYSHUIwtrIv3685oG7N45b8qOQCIqkDwhaf002dcTiHDPV8UZi9P7SIt2HB2fudf0DZQJB-NnEjSv5t_zshJ6E/s1600-h/slot.htm"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2L8Gbbjdih6mSmMiHO5DgFmUZm3doiXcI-9CbsMD_vZqMEJGCg32AffBeHT8NxMwIP3TCxhOqFQ2xHmUvAv3ZnO97nCebf06N-zPPI0A70ArgmBH79i126jMy3L7lOsvpP8jjMOIHCSA/s1600-h/sfu.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371447622493007394" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2L8Gbbjdih6mSmMiHO5DgFmUZm3doiXcI-9CbsMD_vZqMEJGCg32AffBeHT8NxMwIP3TCxhOqFQ2xHmUvAv3ZnO97nCebf06N-zPPI0A70ArgmBH79i126jMy3L7lOsvpP8jjMOIHCSA/s400/sfu.jpg" border="0" /></a></a><br />Just days after playing for a packed house at the Royal Glasgow Concert Hall and recording a live CD, SFU took their masterful playing and wicked tone to the competition circle where they won both events at the World Pipe Band Championships on Saturday. This is the second year in a row that SFU has taken home the title and the 6th time in 14 years.<br /><br />I immensely enjoyed staying up all night on Friday watching the <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/scotland/music/worlds/2009/">BBC live broadcast</a>. I am hoping that this becomes a yearly tradition. Or better yet, I hope I can attend! It was also fun chatting live with other piping fiends via facebook and commenting as the competition progressed. What an amazing technological world we live in!<br /><br />Other highlights included the Dowco Triumph Street Pipe Band playing well enough to make it through the qualifier in the morning and play very respectably in the final on their first time out in grade one at the worlds and sentimental favorite Saint Laurence O'Toole from Dublin break into the top 3 after 10 years of gridlock at the worlds. It was very satisfying to watch local talents Justin Howland and Ross Morrill play so well in TSPD! Congratulations and thanks to all the bands who work so hard to set the world standard in piping and help our art progress.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8223970856173009919.post-26229782230739559772009-08-06T22:17:00.004-06:002009-08-07T09:28:31.626-06:00Off to Scotland!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJa-gSw3siS1WtzBwXApAh1i3RCAO-t_ARhuX66IzByOn_MgLitGxj_5yEbu_LdwkvQTtEwehGRKpkzV_KHIJK_uzlpUS0swEiwcSmtHB3t6T19rQFP7fGnQK_9x1hBbohwg49gfutxiQ/s1600-h/worlds.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5367071220446404002" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 249px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJa-gSw3siS1WtzBwXApAh1i3RCAO-t_ARhuX66IzByOn_MgLitGxj_5yEbu_LdwkvQTtEwehGRKpkzV_KHIJK_uzlpUS0swEiwcSmtHB3t6T19rQFP7fGnQK_9x1hBbohwg49gfutxiQ/s400/worlds.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Well, it's that time of year again. A little over a week from now over 8,000 pipers and drummers from all over the world will take the field at Glasgow Green to compete for the title of "world champions".</div><div></div><div></div><br /><br />I would like to take this opportunity to wish good luck to three home grown pipers that will be competing in the grade 1 contest. Marching to the line in the grade 1 arena at the worlds is something many pipers dream of for years and most never realize. Congratulations to Sylvia DeTar of the current world champion SFU Pipe Band and Justin Howland and Ross Morril of Dowco Triumph Street.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8223970856173009919.post-82635976119475532312009-07-28T16:39:00.019-06:002009-07-28T17:33:46.648-06:00Legends of Piping<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDxXErxWoglGvZ4UZTHXjANVaYDp7tcQzh_7wQ0Dv_dskEi_wCjRkEHibUjWrwuATWqlcYZbiJk_E1sNmcxplv3PFlV3ZLwTpX7pMp4yrrkkecFcfbDhChVY-YXTqH23OUd5v8eBHo8rU/s1600-h/Ross,-GS,-MacDonald250.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363644731720886802" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 301px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 215px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDxXErxWoglGvZ4UZTHXjANVaYDp7tcQzh_7wQ0Dv_dskEi_wCjRkEHibUjWrwuATWqlcYZbiJk_E1sNmcxplv3PFlV3ZLwTpX7pMp4yrrkkecFcfbDhChVY-YXTqH23OUd5v8eBHo8rU/s400/Ross,-GS,-MacDonald250.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />From left to right:<br /><br />Pipe Major Willie Ross, G.S. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">McLennan</span>, John MacDonald of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Inverness</span>.<br /><br />John MacDonald of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Inverness</span> was arguably the best <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">piobaireachd</span> player of all time and passed is vast knowledge of the classical music to many pupils, the most famous of whom are Donald <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">MacLeod</span> and the Bobs of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Balmoral</span>.<br /><br />G.S. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">McLennan</span> may have been the most gifted piping <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">prodigy</span> the world has ever seen, particularly in the light music. From a very young age he wowed audiences (including the Queen) with his unequalled musicality and dexterity. His compositions make up some of the most highly regarded tunes we have in the piping library. <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Unfortunately</span>, his life was cut much too short. Who knows how many wonderful tunes he took to the grave.<br /><br />Pipe Major <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Willie</span> Ross is said to have been the most influential piper of the 20<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">th</span> century. Joining the Scots Guards at age 16, he began an association with military piping that would last for 60 years, including almost 40 years as the piping instructor at the army school of piping at Edinburgh Castle. Among his many students, his most prized pupil was John D. Burgess <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">another</span> piping legend in his own right, winning both gold medals at the age of 16, a feat that has <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">never</span> been equaled.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8223970856173009919.post-52887952020812599702009-07-26T14:42:00.014-06:002009-07-28T17:19:12.951-06:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEI4e61mQrhf0wuUoW2vdO10Vc7s-e-DWMVfpdCw5ee4KV_1Mc6jo_eAd9nx2qC4pzTM6CimxG0TTZTZ2DVrfcC_0IIzs1TQCtJJ1jF3-KiLO3JVEFPsAaVZ_ZcQ4eQaQu2CcLpMN9JLo/s1600-h/my+ancestors.jpg"></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKvUM7LouM0-xTHMuZ5QUMQB4-o6VPmJOlmHCX2Mpve4uUej-rZanx97NslQRlZUqr3-kI8JHtCA0XF7_UN4T88j11ozS-uw7s0PuKAIAv0VxflUXwL9ts6P1QPiQ-Wcu-F_AGP5d7j-o/s1600-h/Donald-Cameron-250.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362875649192783714" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 250px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 357px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKvUM7LouM0-xTHMuZ5QUMQB4-o6VPmJOlmHCX2Mpve4uUej-rZanx97NslQRlZUqr3-kI8JHtCA0XF7_UN4T88j11ozS-uw7s0PuKAIAv0VxflUXwL9ts6P1QPiQ-Wcu-F_AGP5d7j-o/s400/Donald-Cameron-250.jpg" border="0" /></a> This photo is of Donald Cameron. Donald was the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">premier</span> player of his day and an authority on piobaireachd. He lived from 1810-1868. He was a student of the great Angus <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">MacKay and is one of the direct links to the MacCrimmon line.</span> It is said that he was a shrewd, clever man, full of Highland lore and tradition; a keen angler…. In appearance, as in disposition, he was the ‘ideal successor of such hereditary pipers as the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">MacCrimmons</span>, and we shall not look upon his like again.’ Personally he was a most congenial, unassuming man and benevolent to a fault. He won the prize pipe in 1843 and in Edinburgh in 1844. <div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><br /><br />I am <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">fascinated</span> with the great history of our music. I wish I could go back and meet some of these great pipers and just listen to the stories they would tell. I think it would make for a great evening.</div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0