Getting Started with Bagpipes

Welcome! I'm excited to help you begin learning the Great Highland Bagpipes.

The first six months to a year of instruction are typically spent on the practice chanter, where you'll learn proper finger technique, rhythm, music reading, and your first tunes. Once you've developed a solid foundation, we'll transition to the full bagpipes.

For now, you only need a few basic supplies to get started.

Equipment to Purchase Before Lessons Begin

Practice Chanter

I recommend a McCallum Long Poly (Acetal/Delrin) Practice Chanter. It is durable, reliable, and is one of the most commonly used practice chanters today.

Other excellent makers include:

• Gibson

• Dunbar

• R.G. Hardie

• Wallace

A quality practice chanter should last your entire playing career and remain a useful instrument for regular practice even after you move on to the full Highland bagpipes.

Practice Chanter Reeds

Please purchase 2–3 practice chanter reeds. These are labeled as “practice chanter reeds” from the supplier, and are different from “bagpipe chanter reeds”. 

Reeds are inexpensive, occasionally wear out or crack, and it's always helpful to have a spare on hand.

Recommended Suppliers

These companies have excellent reputations for quality equipment and customer service:

• Henderson Imports

• The Piper's Hut

• J. Higgins Ltd.

• Claymore Imports

If you purchase equipment from a source other than one of the recommended suppliers—such as Marketplace or eBay—please run it by me first. I'm happy to help make sure you're purchasing the right equipment.

Supplies for Lessons

I'll provide printed lesson materials as we progress. To keep everything organized, I recommend bringing:

• 1-inch three-ring binder

• Clear sheet protectors

• Pencil with eraser

• Small notebook (optional)

Keeping your music and notes organized will make practicing much easier and allow you to build your own piping notebook over time.

Looking Ahead

There's no need to purchase everything at once. As your skills develop, we'll add equipment when the time is right.

Future purchases may include:

• Rhythmic Fingerwork by Jim McGillivray

• Great Highland Bagpipes

• Pipe bag and accessories

• Bagpipe chanter and drone reeds

• Maintenance supplies

• Highland dress (kilt, sporran, hose, flashes, etc.) if you choose to perform or compete

We'll discuss these purchases together when you're ready, so there's no need to worry about them now.

Questions?

Please feel free to contact me anytime with questions about equipment, practicing, or lessons. I'm always happy to help.

Every experienced piper started exactly where you are now—with a practice chanter, a little patience, and a willingness to learn. I look forward to helping you begin your piping journey!