Bagpipes

[jumary]

I have wanted to learn the GHB since I was quite young but have always been intimidated by the prospect, especially when it comes to reading music. I play guitar by ear and have attempted to learn to read music but end up frustrated and unable to apply it at all; my gift is in my ear and anything technical just confuses me.

I understand that with bagpipes it is nearly impossible to learn to play by ear or on one's own. Is that strictly true? I know of at least one piper (Charlie Allan of Saor Patrol) who claims to have taught himself by ear. Granted, his is a very freestyle way of playing and not traditional, but the concept is there.

I do not have direct access to a teacher but have come across programs like Dojo University/Piper's Dojo. Does anyone have any experience with them or know anything about them? Also, might it be possible to teach oneself with a curriculum like Bagpipe Solutions?

Would appreciate any feedback.

I would recommend you get an instructor who can give you one-on-one attention. Some people may have learned to play by ear, but I think it would be too difficult. You will see that many tunes are not played exactly as they appear on the sheet music, and that is one place where an instructor is a big help. Many tunes also equipped subtle differences in timing of notes, and again, an instructor is indispensable in these cases.

I do think it helps to listen to bagpipes. YouTube and Spotify offer thousands of great examples from the best pipers n the world, and it helps to get used to their sound. You can also learn tunes you like and want to learn to play

Rather than retyping my thoughts from last week, I am copying my earlier response on this thread:

"Welcome to the bagpipes! Be patient and practice and you will steadily improve. It takes time to build stamina.
It s very smart that you have an instructor. That is very important.
Online, check out the Bob Dunsire forums:http://forums.bobdunsire.com/forums/index.php
A great online community that has lots of help. Another good sire is Pipers Dojo. They offer classes and sell supplies. If you desire another instructor, many good ones teach via Skype. I strongly recommend Neil Clarke at Grean Glen Piping. A great instructor and all around great guy. http://www.greatglenpiping.com/
I have been taking lessons with Neil for over four years and he has really helped me. You can also check out his videos on YouTube. He plays many tunes at a slow, instructional pace.
Send me a message any time you want to talk about bagpipes!'