For sale: Koehler & Quinn/Gallagher hybrid full set of D-pitched uilleann pipes.
The Chanter
The chanter was made by David Quinn and Benedict Koehler in 2003. Its design is based off of Mick O’Brien’s Willie Rousome chanter and has boxwood mounts, brass keys (C-natural, F-natural, G-sharp), and Honduras rosewood for its main wood construction. The chanter is bright, strong without being overbearing, very well in-tune and a pleasure to play. (I can’t believe I’m selling this thing!)
The Drones
The drones were one of the very first batches made by Seth Gallagher in New York. These drones have been complimented by virtually every musician who has played or heard them as having a wonderful buzz and a pleasure to listen to. Indeed, there is something special about this set of Gallagher drones that make them a wonderful companion to the chanter.
The Regulators
The regulators are also out of Seth Gallagher’s workshop although have been fitted with other reeds (exception: the bass regulator reed is Mr. Gallagher’s). Once in-tune, they stay in tune for impressively extended periods of time: I have to tweak the tuning rushes about once or twice a year but with those exceptions, they are remarkably stable even in my wide-ranging New England climate. The bass regulator is of the traditional straight-bar design with a fine endcap that visually complements the regulator very nicely.
The Bellows
The bellows are of Michael Dow (of York, Maine) manufacture and are heavy-duty, tough, long-lasting, and easy to use.
I have enjoyed several years of playing this set and have spent lots of time becoming familiar with the set. It is only through financial necessity have I decided to sell this instrument: I have decided to “go flat” and obtain a set of pipes pitched in C. Due to this expenditure, I am forced to sell my K&Q/Gallagher D set, much to my chagrin, in order to fund the flat set.
I’ve replaced all the binding/thread on all the joints of the instrument; I’ve also polished all the brass . . . if you prefer the patina, have no fear for it will return soon!
Pictures of the set are available in addition to sound clips; please email me at jhohl AT the-spa DOT com for more information. I hope to sell this set by mid-August and, ideally, can hand them to the new owner at the Vermont Pipers’ Gathering (www.pipersgathering.org).
Pricing
To obtain a new set (similar to this one) from Seth Gallagher, it would cost you nearly two years and $7225.00. The Koehler & Quinn chanter adds significant value to this set; their ordering books have been closed for years, so that chanter further enhances the value of this set. In addition, these drones are quite unlike the other Gallagher drones I’ve listened to over the years. Consequently, I’m asking $7100 for this set of pipes; I am willing to negotiate if someone feels that they have a fair offer.
Jonathan Hohl
