FAQ
FAQ
The information on this page is here for the purpose of answering some of the more frequent inquiries that I receive. I hope you will find it informative and interesting!
Q. Can the Bagpipes be played indoors?
A. Yes! However, it should always be noted that the Highland Bagpipes are very loud, and there is no volume control, so I definitely recommend not having them played in a small space. Having said that, most church Sanctuaries and banquet halls are large enough to comfortably accomodate the sound.
Q. What is traditional dress for a Bagpiper?
A. The answer to this question is a little bit complicated, as Highland dress has changed much over the centuries. Standard dress for a Bagpiper today is a Kilt, Ghillie Brogue shoes, a necktie, vest and jacket. This has been worn in pipe bands since about the 1930s, and has been adopted by the majority of individual Bagpipers. If a piper is playing a formal wedding or ceremony, he may choose to wear a Prince Charlie jacket and waistcoat, or a Jacobite shirt to a Rennaissance-themed activity or fair.
Q. Are the Bagpipes Irish or Scottish?
A. Yes and Yes! The more commonly played Highland Bagpipes, which are typically enjoyed at events, originated in the Scottish Highlands. The Irish Bagpipes are called Uilleann(pronounced Ill-yen) Pipes, and they are played with a bellows pumping air into the bag rather than the piper using his lungs. Due to this unusual mechanism, these are typically played indoors with the pipes laid across the pipers lap.
Q. How much do you charge?
A. As stated on the rates page, all events are not created equal. Because of this fact and the varying nature and locations of events, each client is quoted a fee on an individual basis, with regard to their budget.
Q. Do you give lessons?
A. I do not have any students under my tutelage at the present time, however I am available to give piping instruction.