Learning the Highland Bagpipes can be difficult for many people; even for those who have a musical background.  The bagpipes require fine motor movements with the hands and fingers but eventually becomes an instrument requiring use of your whole body & I've always said that learning the pipes was one of the more difficult things I have decided to do.  But, like all things in life, with some practice, patience and dedication you will soon be on the way to playing in public, for your friends and family and maybe even in a band or competition setting.

New students will typically start with half hour lessons 1x per week.  Once there is a grasp of the basic tenants of the music and technique, lessons will become bi-monthly and for a full hour.  Typically, new students should anticipate being on the practice chanter for about a year before we start shopping for bagpipes.  (I have had some students progress quicker and up on the pipes in as little as 6 months however.)

The bagpipe is a musical instrument and I treat it as such.  If you are simply looking for a musical toy, bagpipes are probably not for you.  I expect daily practice and a level of commitment from my students yet I recognize that we all have other responsibilities.  While there is no limit as to the cost of a set of bagpipes, a quality set will cost anywhere between $1,000.00 and $1,800.00; add on another $500 - $600 for a pipe chanter, case, cords, bag, reeds and maintenance items.  I have a good relationship with a local supplier and can guarantee the highest quality at the best prices.

If you would like to find out of the bagpipes are right for you, give me a call or drop an email via my contact page.