I work with pipers all over North America and have for many years. Many started later in life driven by a love of the instrument and the culture. They come to me with a collection of issues, understandable confusion, and a desire to improve. Many have been taught incorrectly and find themselves at odds with the instrument, the music, and their audience. In the absence of good instruction, technique, timing, and other important aspects have been torn asunder. One of the myths I hear is “The average listener doesn’t know what it’s supposed to sound like anyway.” They’re not telling me this because they necessarily believe it. They telling me this because this is what they’ve been told by their Pipe Major or instructor. HOOEY!

Bad ANYTHING can be distinguished from good. You don’t need to be a concert violist to know a bad violin, or clarinet, or any other instrument. You can tell when a particular key is out-of-tune on a piano. What makes you think that the average listener doesn’t know when you’re playing an out-of-tune bagpipe or butchering fundamental melody and technique?

Many pipers don’t realize they have issues. Crossing noises, incorrect fingering or technique of embellishments, inaccurate timing and other issues are holding them hostage. These can all be overcome with good instruction, and a bit of time and attention. There is no better time than now!

St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner. You’ll be exposed to lots of piping, some good and some not-so-good. If you’re not quite certain of what’s holding you back, give me a shout. We can help! Whatever you do, don’t be fooled into believing your audience doesn’t know what kind of piper you are. They do. They’re just not saying anything.