Utah Bagpiper

Scotland 2011

2011-09-21T23:26:00.002-06:00

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

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!

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.

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.

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!

Thanksgiving Point 2011

2011-06-13T20:31:00.000-06:00

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.

Costa Mesa 2011

2011-06-02T17:06:00.007-06:00

This past weekend was the Costa Mesa highland games in southern California for the Wasatch and District pipe band. A little California sun, good friends, and good music always equals good times for everyone!

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. Now that we’ve passed Memorial Day, summer is officially here. 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! The band has been working very hard and we are all very excited about the progress we’ve made so far this year. Check back in for updates!

De-Mystifying Bagpipe Setup and Maintenance

2011-04-08T21:06:00.002-06:00

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Can competitive pipers actually ENJOY bagpipe music?

2011-03-16T11:43:00.006-06:00

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:

“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.”

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.

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.

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.

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?

A Little Piece of Piping Lore

2011-03-08T17:55:00.006-07:00

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.

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.

Piper's Persuasion

2011-01-21T09:06:00.001-07:00

http://www.piperspersuasion.com/

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.

How many can you name?

2011-01-18T18:58:00.001-07:00

This is a great photo I came across of the 1986 glenfiddich competitors. You may recognize many familiar faces. How many can you name?

In the preparation lies the success...

2010-11-22T22:21:00.004-07:00

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.

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.

Here are a couple suggestions for the off season:

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!

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.

These investments now will pay great dividends next spring and summer. Keep up the good work!

Enumclaw 2010

2010-08-04T13:04:00.006-06:00

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Competition Season is Upon Us!

2010-07-15T13:42:00.004-06:00

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.

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.

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!

What is your all time favorite piping album?

2010-04-12T17:47:00.005-06:00

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

What is your favorite piping album and why?

Diligence and Labor...

2010-03-30T23:39:00.006-06:00

"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."

-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.

Utah Piobaireachd Club

2010-01-18T20:49:00.010-07:00

The Utah piobaireachd 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 Piobaireachd, Pibroch, and Ceol Mor."

The first three meetings have been informal gatherings of local piobaireachd 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.

utahpibroch.blogspot.com

Test your knowledge!

2009-11-19T21:47:00.007-07:00

Ok Pipers... How well do you know your piping history?

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...

Staurt Liddell captures the Bratach Gorm

2009-11-07T14:40:00.003-07:00

Stuart Liddell continued his stellar competitive 2009 year by winning the Bratach Gorm. Held in London, the Bratach Gorm competition is organized by the Scottish Piping Society of London and is a qualifier for the 2010 Glenfiddich.

The Glenfiddich Piping Championship

2009-11-06T00:05:00.006-07:00

Stuart Liddell 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.

Stuart accomplished yet another milestone in his stellar piping career by winning the 2009 Glenfiddich Champion at the Glenfiddich Invitational Solo Piping Championships held at Blair Castle. His first time winning the prize, Liddell concluded an amazing year that included the Northern Meeting Clasp and sweeping every grade two event with the Inveraray & District Pipe Band as Pipe-Major, assuring the bands promotion to grade 1.

Roddy MacLeod of Glasgow won the Piobaireachd event for an record eighth time, with Bruce Gandy of Canada as runner up. Willie McCallum of Bearsden, Scotland, took home the MSR and narrowly missed winning a ninth overall title.

Great Basin Piping Workshops

2009-10-19T17:33:00.004-06:00

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 Worrall and Ann Gray.

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, Oban, and the Bratach Gorm. Most recently, pipers may recognise Bob as the voice of the BBC piping commentary during the World Championship broadcast.

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.

Thanks to the organizers of this great event. I hope there are many similar events in the future.

Deja Vu for SFU!

2009-08-18T17:19:00.008-06:00

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.

I immensely enjoyed staying up all night on Friday watching the BBC live broadcast. 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!

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.

Off to Scotland!

2009-08-06T22:17:00.004-06:00

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".

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.

Legends of Piping

2009-07-28T16:39:00.019-06:00

From left to right:

Pipe Major Willie Ross, G.S. McLennan, John MacDonald of Inverness.

John MacDonald of Inverness was arguably the best piobaireachd player of all time and passed is vast knowledge of the classical music to many pupils, the most famous of whom are Donald MacLeod and the Bobs of Balmoral.

G.S. McLennan may have been the most gifted piping prodigy 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. Unfortunately, his life was cut much too short. Who knows how many wonderful tunes he took to the grave.

Pipe Major Willie Ross is said to have been the most influential piper of the 20th 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 another piping legend in his own right, winning both gold medals at the age of 16, a feat that has never been equaled.

2009-07-26T14:42:00.014-06:00

This photo is of Donald Cameron. Donald was the premier player of his day and an authority on piobaireachd. He lived from 1810-1868. He was a student of the great Angus MacKay and is one of the direct links to the MacCrimmon line. 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 MacCrimmons, 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.

I am fascinated 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.

2009-07-19T23:02:00.003-06:00

The band has had a busy summer so far. A few highlights include playing for over 10,000 people at the Mariott Center for a patriotic service and for an estimated 300,000-500,000 people leading off the annual grand parade at the Provo Freedom Festival. The band also played a concert at Colonial Days and played for the Steven Henager College graduation as well as several other parades and shows.

On a personal note, I competed solo for the first time in four years. I felt I had a particularly good run in my piobaireachd which is pictured here. Hopefully many more competitions coming up in the future!

Zen Enlightenment through Piping?

2009-07-15T22:24:00.010-06:00

...ok, maybe not, but sometimes it comes pretty close. Tonight was one of those nights. When the pipes seem to play themselves. When the deep bass and bright tenors blend warmly and seamlessly to envelope the room in a thick and penetrating wall of sound. When that wall of sound seems to gently cradle the chanter, bringing out sweetly ringing overtones and harmonics. When all you have to do is let your chanter sing effortlessly. When the music just flows like a relentless river full of life and energy. When your instrument, technique, and music melt together and become an extension of your mind, body, and soul. When you are taken to another place and time. When life, for a few moments, is just... perfect. All of this deep Zen thinking led my mind to a philosophical riddle that has perplexed mankind for centuries. "If a piper is alone in a forest and misses a doubling and no one is there to hear it, did he really miss the doubling?" Ponder that for a while and you just may experience Zen enlightenment through piping. ;)

Flowers of the Forest

2009-06-07T13:52:00.003-06:00

I’m not really sure why, but this photo I came across deeply touched me. This is a photo of an Allied soldier playing the bagpipes en route to France on D-Day, June 6 1944. Gratitude overcame me as I looked at each of their faces and saw bravery that must have been far superior to my own. It is almost certain that these same pipes, only days later, were heard playing the constant strains of Flowers of the Forest in memorial to many of these brave soldiers who gave their lives to protect our right to freedom in the face of tyranny. May we always remember the price of our freedom.

Ceol "No" Mor!

2009-06-06T11:39:00.006-06:00

Even the most enthusiastic lovers of the great classical music of the Highland Pipe must, at times, have some empathy for the brave judges!

Because you won't always have Donald McLeod around to tune them...

2009-04-18T22:41:00.008-06:00

Here is the legendary piper Donald McLeod tuning the drones of one of his pupils.

How often do pipers neglect the importance of always presenting a well tuned instrument when performing? I remember reading an article by Ian Whitelaw years ago in which he discussed the acceptable standards for performing that classical musicians have. Whenever you hear piano or violin, etc. on a movie soundtrack or on television there is always a certain standard that the listener expects to hear. How often do we as pipers hear the public say "I can't tell the difference between a good piper and a bad piper"? This is because the average listener has only had experience listening to poorly tuned and played bagpipes.

If we as pipers are to be respected as musicians and not just a novelty act we must strive to always present our instrument at the highest level that we are capable. This takes practice. Never just rely on your band to always tune your bagpipes. Have a separate solo chanter and get used to setting up your own chanter (messing with your band chanter is not a good idea usually). Tune always and often during your private practice, never settle of anything less than in tune. It may be hard at first, but each time it gets easier.

When performing, don't have the attitude of "It's just a funeral", or "It's not a competition so it doesn't matter". As a piper you are perpetuating a very proud tradition. Make sure that those who hear you have a positive imprint left upon their mind. Of course, we all have those days when things just go wrong, but practice, practice, practice, and just caring will make those times the exception rather than the rule.

Traditional march to the games...

2009-01-20T21:33:00.005-07:00

Let's test your piping knowledge. Do you know what traditional major gathering these pipers are marching to?

There are several prominant pipers on the front row. Can you name any of them?

Hint: The position of pipe major of this group is reserved for the winner of the gold medal on the previous day.

Good Luck!

To the Make of a Piper...

2009-01-12T22:57:00.002-07:00

To the make of a piper goes seven years of his own learning, and seven generations before. At the end of his seven years one born to it will stand at the start of knowledge, and leaning a fond ear to the drone he may have parley with old folks of old affairs.

-Neil Munro

What are your piping related resolutions?

2009-01-02T23:41:00.010-07:00

Happy New Year! Despite the roller coaster world we live in, it has been another great year for piping. There have been so many great stories and accomplishments both local and world wide. It's always enjoyable associating with fellow pipers and lovers of the music. I hope that 2009 brings many more great things for all of our piping.

New years is a great time for resolutions...
What are your piping related resolutions? I would like to read about them.

One of my piping related new years resolutions is to return to the solo competition platform. I have taken a 4 year break from competing solo because I have chosen to spend more time focusing on other aspects of life, but I have always enjoyed the challenge and thrill of competing. So look for me this summer at the games!

Happy Piping!

Inverness gold for a well deserving competitor

2008-09-04T23:02:00.004-06:00

Today was the first day of the annual northern meeting and, for the first time in a few years, it was held once again in its traditional location of Inverness.

The gold medal was captured by Alan Bevan of British Columbia. Over the past decade Alan has come close to the big prize on many occasions, but today fate was on his side and he played a brilliant tune on a flawless pipe to bring home the prize.

Congratulations also to Colin Lee, son of Jack Lee for his win in the Silver Medal and Angus MacColl for winning the Silver Star former winners MSR.

Utah pipers representing on a world stage

2008-08-01T20:32:00.004-06:00

Congratulations to Ross Morrill and Justin Howland who have had a successful season competing in BC with the grade one Triumph Street Pipe Band.

This past weekend they also competed as quartets and took home first prize against quartets from SFU! An amazing feat!

This weekend they will be playing for the title of North American Champions in Maxville, Ontario. Best of luck boys!

Congrats again to Ross and Justin, now bring some of that sizzling BC piping home so it can rub off on the rest of us!

Tip of the Day

2008-07-22T22:41:00.008-06:00

<--- The great John Wilson's MacDougalls

There is nothing more discouraging than a bagpipe that is hard to play. Here is the great secret... your pipe can be easy to blow and still produce a wonderful sound! The first place to start is the bag. Make sure you have a set of stock corks and check the bag for air-tightness regularly. Next, make sure that your stocks are properly hemped. If the entire drone is turning when you are tuning, your stocks are not properly hemped and you may be losing a significant amount of air!

Next, make sure you have a good air valve and a blowpipe that is not to restrictive. I recommend an Airstream for the maximum air flow. Many pipes come standard with a blowpipe that is not suitable, I learned this the hard way.

Next, make sure that your drone reeds are not too open. You should be able to shut off the reeds simply by increasing the pressure on the bag. If you cannot, your reeds may be taking too much air, making your pipes very difficult to blow steadily.

Lastly, there is no reason to play a chanter reed that is too hard. Purchase your reeds through a reputable dealer and pay the extra price to ensure that you are purchasing a reed that will play and not expensive firewood.

Don't be afraid to have an experienced player look your pipes over and help you get them set up properly, most players are very willing to help. Good luck and happy piping!

Fun, Friends, Adventure...

2008-07-21T22:54:00.005-06:00

Without a doubt, one of the greatest dividends that piping has paid in my life is an abundance of friends, a whole lot of fun, and more than a few adventures.

The piping community is very close knit and I have had the pleasure of traveling abroad many times with bands and groups of solo pipers to various games and competitions.

Each trip comes with its own tale to tale, but perhaps one of the craziest for me came in September of 1999 when me and my good friend and fellow competitor Ian Crane visited the Estes Park highland games in Colorado.

The trip started out great. We were two young, poor kids so I begged my parents to let us take the family minivan. After some convincing my mom agreed. The trip continued without any problems until we started ascending the mountains going towards Estes Park. We noticed that the gears were slipping and as we continued up the mountain we realized that the transmission was going. There was not a lot that we could do at that point but coast down into the town.

We made it into our parking space at the highland games and had to spend the night in the cold van. In the morning we tried to back up only to realize that reverse was gone... Well, at this point, we weren't really smart enough to panic, so we just had a good day at the games and we both took 2nd place in our respective grades that day. As I recall Ian wasn't happy at all... "2nd place is the 1st place loser" is what he used to say. Maybe that's where I got some of my perfectionism... For me, 2nd place was good considering my hands were so cold I could hardly feel the chanter!

Anyway... after the games were over we were back to facing reality... we had no way to get home and very little money. Somehow we managed to flirt with the hotel receptionist so she gave us a huge discount a room. Now that we had a place to stay all we needed was food. As all recall all we ate for about 3 days was 7-layer burritos from Taco Bell.

A while later we get the news that my mom is coming to rescue us driving our old family motor home and pulling a tow trailer. When she finally arrives that is when the fun really begins. The motor home kept stalling as we drove over the peak (refer to the above photo). To make matters worse, construction had the road closed down to one lane, so we were blocking the traffic and making a lot of people very angry.

When we finally got started down the mountain the brakes started over heating and the petal was all the way to the floor and we weren't stopping! I thought that was going to be the end right there, but we somehow managed to survive to pipe another day. I just feel bad for my mom because as we very slowly drove home pulling her crippled van me and Ian played "guess that bagpipe tune" for about 10 hours! Its a wonder my mom didn't throw us both out of the motor home. That's true love right there...

Fortunately I did live to pipe another day!

If you have a crazy piping story please tell me about it in the comments section.

Cooling off on a HOT 4th of July!

2008-07-07T20:44:00.002-06:00

The Mount Timpanogos Pipe Band enjoys a round of ice cold limeades courtesy of Guru's in Provo after our performance at colonial days as part of the Freedom Festival.

Musician first... competitor second

2008-06-29T23:07:00.003-06:00

Why is it that highland bagpipers are so competitive? Does it have something to do with our heritage? We have some inherent need to prove we are the best. I can't think of any other type of music where competition is so important that it literally is the driving force for musical innovation. Irish pipers have, to a great extent, avoided this path and often speak of highland piping as "the darkside", snickering at the regiment that we put ourselves through to become slaves to the "unmusical" gracenotes and such.

I tend to laugh at these type of comments... but at the same time I see their point. As highland pipers we must always remember that we are musicians first, competitors second. The problem today is that so many pipers are taught to compete before they even come close to understanding the music. The strictness of competitive style piping can result in some of the most amazing music. (example)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ErtFfLCNtz8

If we lose sight of the music we become fodder for bagpipe jokes and perpetuate the myth that bagpipes have to sound like this.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JJm_bSTJI4U&feature=related

Take the time to learn about the music you are playing. Learn the history and evolution of the different styles of our music. Learn about the great players of the past and how they contributed to the music we have today. Learn about music theory. Learn how to get the best sound out of your instrument. When you play in public be polished and professional and you will be regarded as a musician and not a novelty.

There is one pipe band classic that really deserves another listen...

2008-06-24T15:00:00.008-06:00

I must say that for a piper who was taught so far away from a piping "hotbed" I was really lucky to be to be exposed to some of the best piping in the world very early on in my study of the pipes. This exposure included two visits from the SFU pipe band in my home town in my first two years of playing. Why did SFU come to Utah you ask?... I don't know, but they did, and it really opened my eyes!

This type of exposure is important in the musical development of pipers, but it can be as simple becoming very familiar with the best pipers in the world and studying their recordings. Listening to the best bagpipe albums was always a major part of my study from the beginning.

For me, the first such recording was the 78th Fraser Highlanders "Live in Ireland" recording. As a brand new piper, listening to this album was eye-opening. It was like candy for my ears, a drug that I instantly became addicted to. For lack of better words, it was magical. To create this type of music is why I became a piper.

Lets take another look at the recording itself...

The album gets started with Bill Livingstone playing a slow version of Lord Lovat's Lament. The sound of his rich drones and sweet chanter combined with controlled expression evoke emotion. Moments later Reid Maxwell's drums corps and the entire pipe corps strike up to a brisk, march rendition of the same tune. A lovely opener, and to this day I cannot hear this tune without making the 78th Frasers association.

Today, there are better ways of capturing the sound of the pipes and drums in recordings, but there is something about this album that makes you feel like you there. The sound of the pipes are quite nice and pitched significantly lower than today's top bands. The debate over pitch is another topic for another day, but nevertheless, the lower pitch creates a harmonically richer, more full sound that is displayed nicely here.

The next track features an example of a competitive medley. In the early 80's the 78th Frasers pushed the existing boundaries and basically set the tone for what is still being done today in the medley format. Some of the highlights of this particular medley include "Inspector Donald Campbell of Ness", the highly musical and highly technical jig was always a wonder for me as a young player. Donald MacLoed's Craig-a-Bodich and John Walsh's clever, round style reel also add to this set.

The next set features 3 outstanding 6/8 Marches. Young players take note of the expression, particularly the 8th note accentuation. This is what gives the 6/8 march its "swing" and is so often overlooked with new players. The distinctive "up" swing is actually given more than it's written value when played at these fast tempos, but when practicing slowly, set the metronome to triple time and make sure that the 8th note gets it's full value.

Track 4 is the first solo set... what else can I say, when I was young I wanted to be Bruce Gandy. I thought his solo was the most amazing thing ever at the time. The highlight must be the "Galtee Ranger". The bend on C and D was so cool at the time, but hearing so many bad players try to play tunes like Terry Tully's "Pumpkin's Fancy" has lessened my liking of this. Nevertheless, Bruce Gandy was and is today one the world's premier players and the musicality of his light music playing is evident here.

Track 5 features the popular slow air "The Cliffs of Doneen" and two hornpipes in the traditional dot-and-cut style that is not heard as often today, being replaced with the round, more modern style reel/hornpipe hybrid. Not much to say here, just good piping.

Track 6 was a preview to the world of the first band in history from outside of Scotland to win the world championships. This amazing feat happened only three days after the recording was made. As for the winning set itself, classic MSR all the way. This is about as difficult as music gets in piping. Charlie's Welcome has always been one of my favorite reels to listen to (not to play).

Track 7 is a solo by Michael Grey. My particular favorite is Colin MacLellan's not often heard jig arrangement of the classic strathspey "The Piper's Bonnet". Again, here is a display of amazing dexterity and musical control.

Track 8 begins with a lovely arrangement of the Irish love song "My Laggan Love". The harmonies are very nice and the low g to low a slide at the end is tastefully done. This leads into a nice hornpipe and jig set.

Bill Livingstone may very well be the best living piobaireachd player in the world today. Although he didn't get his official start in Ceol Mor until the age of 27, he was lucky enough to be taught by some of the best players of the 20th century. Donald MacLeod and John Wilson just to name a couple. Here Bill plays the ground of "Lament for the Children". Although not technically difficult, this piece is a prime example of why piobaireachd is so difficult to master. With this piece there is little separating between the player and the instrument. The classic melody is played in a way that is extremely beautiful and heart felt. Absolutely masterful, but not very much appreciated at the time I first listened as it would take years to learn to appreciate the subtitles of the "big music". Nevertheless, this small glimps into piobaireachd prompted me to further study which has since evolved into a passion.

Track 10 features the Frasers championship winning medley selection. There is not much I can say here, just sit back, close your eyes, and imagine the band on Glasgow Green making a huge splash in the pond of competitive piping. Perhaps that day should have happened years earlier, (possibly with the Simon Fraser University Pipe Band). But in 1987, the Scottish judges could no longer postpone the inevitable reality... that they weren't the only ones that could play the pipes, and play them well.

Track 11 is more 6/8 marches. Highlighted for me by Willie Ross' great tune "Leaving Port Askaig".

In track 12 Reid Maxwell is featured, but as a young piper I was too busy listening to great unison playing of the piping duet accompaniment.

"Journey to Skye" is a suite of sorts; a very memorable listening experience. Another prime example of how the Frasers not only pushed to competitive boundaries, but also the musical limitations of ensemble pipe band performance. One funny note, if you listen carefully, you can hear an early chanter towards the end of the performance when the pipes strike back in after the drums were featured. An old acquaintance once passed on what is probably a non-credible bagpipe folklore that the errant piper was Bruce Gandy taking his eyes off the pipe major for a second. Is it true?... I have no idea, but pipers LOVE to speculate! ;) Journey to Skye is a great musical accomplishment and a very pleasurable listen.

As a young player, track 14 was probably the one that I hit the repeat button the most on. More than any other, this set defined what the Frasers were all about. Great music... classical and modern, played in a way that is musical, exciting, and pleasing... doing what has never been done, but at the same time, honoring tradition. "The Mist Covered Mountains" breaking into G.S. MacLellans's greatest masterpiece "The Little Cascade" to this day is one of the most memorable moments in all of my bagpipe listening.

Track 15 is the encore... so enjoy! Other pipe bands take note, this is what Clumsy Lover is supposed to sound like! A great tune by Neil Dickie, but probably the most butchered tune of all time.

Well, I know I was a bit long winded, but I'm allowed to do that, it's my blog! So, if it's been a while since you've had a listen or if you have never listened, don't be deceived by the tacky yellow cover. "Live in Ireland" is the best selling pipe band recording of all time for a reason... It's really good! It opened up my eyes to a whole new world of listening, and more importantly, it showed a young piper who didn't know any better what our music is supposed to sound like.

John

Welcome to my piping page!

2008-02-25T23:34:00.000-07:00

For the last decade or so I have been lucky enough to call myself a piper. For me, piping is more than just a hobby, its a passion and a way of life... Piping is a big part of who I am.

This page is dedicated to all pipers; those who love the pipes; those who want to play the pipes; those who want bagpipes at their funeral; and even for those who hate the pipes (there is hope for you yet!).

Through this page I hope to share experiences, knowledge, insights, humor, trivia, fun stories, or anything else that has to do with piping. I hope that you will share as well!