We're about to start day three at the Midwest School of Pipes and Drums (Milwaukee), and my son and I have made a few observations.

Killer facial hair is an absolute must if you really want to look like a piper. I'm not sure how well some of these guys play, but they sure look great.

Tyler Fry has the greatest laugh ever. And he does it a lot. No one's having more fun than Tyler Fry.

Note to stubborn pipe majors everywhere: When you're playing in a band, no one can tell if your pipers are playing an E doubling or a simple G grace note. In fact, no one cares. Rather than having your band slop through all those embellishments and yelling at them about how sloppy it is, dumb the music down. The parade audience will enjoy it just the same. I came into the school opposed to this, but after watching/listening to the Celtic Nations band out of Milwaukee, I've made a 180 degree change of opinion. They sound amazing, and they're not killing themselves sweating a bunch of embellishments.

Bruce Gandy sure seems like a really nice guy. And I mean, just a guy. A normal guy.

Once we learn some band tunes, most of us quit focusing on fundamentals. Every now and then, we need to be reminded to practice our D-throws and taorluaths, because most band rehearsals don't include time for it.

My 12-year-old wants to be Lyric Todkill when he grows up. I'd be just fine with that.

Ken Eller has forgotten more about piping than I will ever know. I love to listen to him tell stories.

The folks here at MSOPD have gone above-and-beyond in the nice department. I highly encourage folks to consider the school next summer. We're having a great time.