Bagpiping anyone?

[Jack Daw]

How old is too old? I've always wanted to learn to play, but only recently inherited a set of pipes...I have yet to purchase a chanter, but again, at 49, am I too old?

Chase

For someone your age, it's not impossible, but you'll not likely ever become a gold medalist. That being said, if you get an instructor that is strict about you keeping your fingers close to the chanter (not so easy), and light to the touch (easier for women), and you practice a couple of hours a day 5 days a week, you could become a decent piper.

[kypnkilt]

As for the PC's....I personally usually suggest getting a long PC versus one that is smaller. I have seen those that have practiced with the smaller type and have to re-adjust finger spacing and even timing when going to a GHB chanter. I usually recommend the Dunbar Long and pop a Abbot PC reed in it. That combo seems to go hand-and-hand. I have found that the transition from longer PC's (albeit Gibson, Dunbar or McCallum, etc.) to the GHB chanter to be a smoother transition that those that have smaller PC's in the beginning. Not saying that's the best setup, but one that has worked for many others I know.

As for age....never too old. I've seen those between the ages of 50-75 begin the pipes. Some with obvious talent that they didn't know they had. So, better late than never....

[Jimmy Carbomb]

I'll back it up with a link and information.

Here's a link to "Song of the Sea" for a practice chanter kit that's affordable and well worth the time to learn.

http://www.songsea.com/chanters.htm

It's not expensive and plays well. You CAN always take a chanter from the stock and put a mouthpiece over the reed. I have this, and it's easy to play. It's also a wonderful way to test your reeds at different altitudes BEFORE you fire them up.

You can also get a cane reed for a normal or practice chanter through MacCallum Pipes. That's where I get all mine. Cane reeds last longer, have a mellower sound, and don't bend out of shape as easily. They have to custom make some of my reeds, but I know that they have plenty of options in-stock too.

http://www.mccallumbagpipes.com

While at McCallum, you can check out their practice chanter kits (which can be pricey). I know that The Thistle Shop carries them here in the States.

I buy McCallum because I get paid to play... but they're also REAL nice.

[AndrewLenzJr]

I buy McCallum because I get paid to play... but they're also REAL nice.

They are ok. Naill, Atherton, Sinclair are all better attention to detail and more R&D into stability of the drones. McCallums are improving and their customer service is tops, but they are not going to be among the top brands . . . but they are reasonably priced and there are worse brands out there, to say the least. They are by far the best marketed pipes out there; McCallum is an advertising machine.

Andrew